Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is facing scrutiny after records contradicted her testimony before Congress this Tuesday. According to reports reviewed by ProPublica and four current and former DHS officials, Secretary Noem misled lawmakers about the extent of her top aide, Corey Lewandowski’s, authority within the Department of Homeland Security.
Lewandowski currently holds an unusual position at DHS, acting as a high-ranking official despite not being a paid government employee. For months, Congress has sought clarification regarding his role and authority within the sprawling agency.
Noem’s Testimony and Contradictory Evidence
During a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, Senator Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., directly questioned Secretary Noem about Lewandowski’s involvement in approving contracts at DHS. Noem stated, “No.” However, internal DHS records indicate that Lewandowski personally approved a multimillion-dollar equipment contract last summer.
Current and former department employees have stated that Lewandowski’s approval extends beyond a single instance, with his signature often required on large contracts before funds are disbursed. Last year, Noem implemented a policy requiring her personal review and approval of all contracts exceeding $100,000, with Lewandowski’s approval typically preceding her own on the internal routing checklist.
Under federal law, knowingly making a false statement to Congress is a crime, though prosecutions are rare. A DHS spokesperson reiterated Noem’s claim that Lewandowski does not approve contracts, stating he is a volunteer who receives no salary or federal benefits. Lewandowski did not respond to requests for comment.
Reports from several news outlets, including Politico, have previously detailed aspects of Lewandowski’s involvement in DHS contracting. DHS has asserted that the new contract review process implemented by Noem has resulted in billions of dollars in savings for taxpayers, despite widespread reports of delays.
A similar sign-off process, involving Lewandowski and Noem, was too used for policy decisions, as evidenced by a document related to rolling back protections for Haitians in the U.S. That emerged in litigation last year.
Lewandowski is designated as a “special government employee,” a status that allows individuals to serve in government for limited periods without relinquishing outside employment and with fewer ethical restrictions than traditional officials. Lewandowski has not disclosed whether he receives compensation from outside sources.
Frequently Asked Questions
What role does Corey Lewandowski have at DHS?
Corey Lewandowski is acting as a top official at DHS, assisting Secretary Noem in running the agency, despite not being a paid government employee.
Did Secretary Noem deny Lewandowski’s involvement in contract approvals?
Yes, Secretary Noem told the Senate Judiciary Committee that Lewandowski has “no” role in approving contracts at DHS.
What does the DHS spokesperson say about Lewandowski’s role?
The DHS spokesperson reiterated Secretary Noem’s claim that Lewandowski does not play a role in approving contracts and that he volunteers his time without receiving a salary or benefits.
As this situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how Congress will respond to the apparent contradiction between Secretary Noem’s testimony and the documented evidence. Will further investigation be pursued, and what impact might this have on the leadership at the Department of Homeland Security?
