South Dakota Governor Faces Lawsuit Over Undisclosed Advertisement for Cosmetic Dentistry
Governor Kristi Noem of South Dakota is facing backlash after showcasing her new teeth in a social media video that has landed her in legal trouble. The governor’s trip to Houston for a cosmetic dental procedure was documented in detail in the video, which has now led to a lawsuit being filed against her.
A nonpartisan consumer group filed a lawsuit in Superior Court in Washington, D.C., alleging that Governor Noem’s social media post was an undisclosed advertisement for the cosmetic dentistry practice in Houston that was featured in the video. The lawsuit claims that this violates the district’s consumer protection law, which prohibits deceptive business practices.
In addition to the lawsuit, Governor Noem is also under scrutiny in her home state of South Dakota. A state senator has called for an examination into whether public funds or a state airplane were used for her trip to Texas.
The dental practice, Smile Texas, featured prominently in the video, offers guidance on travel and financing for cosmetic procedures on its website. However, a representative for the practice declined to comment when reached by phone, citing HIPAA policy.
In the video, Governor Noem explains that she flew to Houston to have her teeth fixed after a biking accident years ago. The video includes testimonials from the governor, footage of a dentist at the practice, and ends with the Smile Texas logo. However, Governor Noem did not include any disclosure that the content was sponsored.
The lawsuit against Governor Noem seeks to compel her to make corrective disclosures on the social media posts. Social media influencers are typically required by law to disclose any financial relationships with companies when promoting products or services.
As the controversy continues to unfold, Governor Noem has yet to respond to the allegations. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
