Vice President JD Vance reportedly had to dip out of Kristi Noem’s swearing-in ceremony after she showed up late.
The former South Dakota governor was confirmed as the Trump administration’s secretary of homeland security in a 59-34 vote Saturday, even earning the approval of a few Democrats.
However, after failing to arrive on time to be sworn into office at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Politico reports that Vance had to leave after 25 minutes to avoid hindering his schedule.
The new homeland security chief ended up arriving roughly 15 minutes after he had left, the publication reported, citing two sources familiar with the matter.
She was later sworn in by Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, at his home.
In a statement to Politico, DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin clarified that Noem was delayed because her late father’s Bible took time to arrive. She apparently has used the book to be sworn into every office she has ever held.
“Secretary Noem has used this sentimental bible to be sworn into every office she has ever held,” McLaughlin told the outlet.
“Secretary Noem was honored to be sworn in by Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas at his home with her dad’s bible. We are grateful to the Vice President and his office.”
