Former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is showing off the results of a recent archery hunt, posting photographs of herself with a large bull elk she says she harvested with a bow.
The images, shared on social media and reported by TMZ.com on Monday, September 21, 2026, show Noem kneeling behind the animal with her bow resting across its body. In the photos, she poses both alone and alongside members of her hunting party, with the bull's large antlers visible in each frame. According to TMZ.com, the animal appears to be a 12-point.
Noem said she "finally had a little time" to share pictures from the archery hunt, describing the experience as "super fun" and thanking a group of male friends for helping make it possible, TMZ.com reported. She added that "The strategy and work paid off" and expressed gratitude for their help and friendship, according to TMZ.com.
Hunting and other outdoor pursuits have long been part of Noem's public identity, and her Instagram bio prominently references hunting and fishing, TMZ.com noted. The reaction in the comments on the post was divided, with responses ranging from congratulations to disgust, according to TMZ.com.
The post arrives as hunting and wildlife management remain closely watched topics in many rural communities, where archery seasons and tag draws shape local economies and traditions. Noem's public embrace of the sport places her among a group of prominent political figures who use hunting as a way to connect with outdoors-oriented constituents.
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Ava Hart
Ava Hart is a pop culture junkie and loves to share what's happening in Hollywood and what trends are taking the world by storm.
