Judge Rules Against Noem In Fireworks Lawsuit; Noem Vows 2022 Appeal

"SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — A federal court has ruled there will be no Fourth of July fireworks at Mount Rushmore.

Judge Roberto A. Lange said today in the ruling that while fireworks on July 3 “at first blush” seems like a good idea, the “Court is not called upon to determine whether such a fireworks display is a good idea.”

In short, Lange said that the state did not meet requirements for him to rule in Noem and the state’s favor.

In a post on her Governor’s Twitter Account, Noem said “The Biden Administration cancelled South Dakota’s Mount Rushmore Fireworks Celebration on completely arbitrary grounds. I am disappointed the court gave cover to this unlawful action with today’s decision.”"

Rae Yost reports for KELO June 2, 2021.