Kristi Noem’s ‘saddened’ husband breaks silence after divorce filing

Kristi Noem’s estranged husband says he is “saddened” she officially filed for divorce — and would welcome the chance to tell his side if the split ends up in a court proceeding, according to a TMZ exclusive.

Byron Noem’s attorney, Tim Bottum, spoke to the outlet Wednesday after the former Trump administration Homeland Security secretary filed for divorce Monday in South Dakota. Noem cited irreconcilable differences, according to court documents obtained by TMZ.

“Bryon is saddened that the marriage is ending and hopes for a private and amicable resolution,” Bottum told the outlet. “If court proceedings become necessary, Bryon will welcome the opportunity to truthfully share his perspective.”

The filing follows months of scrutiny over reports about Byron’s reported participation in online fetish forums.

“A report in March said Bryon had taken photos wearing women's clothing and oversized fake breasts while communicating with adult performers involved in the ‘bimbofication’ fetish scene,” TMZ reported Wednesday.

The former MAGA cabinet official's team previously said she was “devastated” by those reports and that the family had been "blindsided."

"Bryon's priority is to protect the family and move forward as loving parents and grandparents,” Bottum said.

The couple were high school sweethearts and were married in 1992, TMZ reported. They have three children and four grandchildren.