The White House responded strongly to South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem's recent comments regarding President Joe Biden's dog, Commander. Noem, who admitted to shooting her own dog, Cricket, in a gravel pit, suggested that Commander should meet a similar fate. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre condemned Noem's remarks, calling them disturbing and absurd.
Noem's controversial statements stem from Commander's history of biting incidents involving White House staff and Secret Service personnel. Internal documents revealed that Commander had bitten individuals in at least 24 separate incidents, prompting concerns for the safety of those working in the White House.
In response to the criticism, Noem defended her position by questioning how many people needed to be attacked before a decision was made about the dog's future. She reiterated her stance during a recent media appearance, raising further eyebrows.
Despite efforts to address Commander's behavior through training and consultations with experts, the dog was ultimately relocated to Delaware to live with Biden family members. This move followed similar action taken with the Bidens' other dog, Major, who had also displayed aggressive behavior.
The situation has sparked bipartisan outrage, with many expressing dismay over Noem's callous remarks and the handling of the dogs' behavior. The White House emphasized its commitment to the safety of its staff and the importance of responsible pet ownership.
As the controversy continues to unfold, the fate of Commander remains uncertain. The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges associated with pet ownership in high-profile settings and the need for proper training and supervision.
