DOJ investigating Trump ally Corey Lewandowski Over DHS Role – Report

The US Department of Justice (DOJ) is currently conducting an investigation into Corey Lewandowski, a former top aide to Kristi Noem, the ex-Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The focus of the inquiry is to determine whether Lewandowski personally profited from his position within the DHS. Lewandowski tenure as a special government employee, which lasted until March, was marked by significant controversies, including incidents involving the fatal shootings of US citizens by immigration officers. Both Lewandowski and Noem departed their roles amid these controversies, prompting the current examination by the DOJ, as reported by partner media organizations.

Justice Department Examines Corey Lewandowski Role at DHS

The investigation pertains to contracts signed by the agency during Kristi Noem leadership. A source informed the media about this probe. Corey Lewandowski attorney, Adam Trigg, stated to MEDIA that his client has not been contacted by the Justice Department regarding any investigation and denies any wrongdoing. When questioned about the inquiry, President Donald Trump acknowledged he had heard of it but was unaware of the specifics, emphasizing the importance of honesty among his associates.

No, reports state that Lewandowski is not officially on the DHS payroll and was described as a volunteer or outside advisor, which is the main reason for the investigation. Corey Lewandowski, who managed Donald Trump 2016 presidential campaign and provided guidance for his 2024 campaign, emphasized the necessity for honesty in political conduct. He stated that dishonesty should result in prosecution, highlighting a strict accountability stance towards campaign integrity and ethical conduct within political operations.

DHS officials reported to Media that Corey Lewandowski, serving as a special government employee, approved several Department of Homeland Security (DHS) contracts without possessing the legal authority to do so. Additionally, Lewandowski is accused of placing certain grants and contracts on hold, which included those related to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Special government employees are appointed as temporary advisers to federal agencies, and their roles come with strict limitations concerning the extent of their work and the actions they can undertake.

The investigation by the Justice Department was initiated after a referral from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) inspector general office, which comprises lawyers responsible for monitoring the agency operations and conduct. Within DHS, Lewandowski had the role of de facto chief of staff under Noem. Additionally, Noem encountered scrutiny regarding a controversial $220 million advertising contract awarded shortly before her departure from office. Lawmakers questioned her about the processes employed to allocate this contract to two companies connected to Noem and individuals within her close circle.

Investigation Raises Questions About Lewandowski Influence Within Homeland Security

According to a report from The Wall Street Journal, it is alleged that Lewandowski sought to exploit his position at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for personal financial advantage. Specifically, he purportedly reached out to countries in the Middle East, soliciting employment opportunities that would allow him to assist with visa issues and other matters related to DHS, thereby leveraging his official role for private gain. The president commented on the importance of honesty, stating, “If he honest that good. If he not honest, you have to pay a price.”

This remark came in the context of tensions surrounding former DHS Secretary Kristi Noem and her adviser, Corey Lewandowski. Reports from media indicate that several senior officials at DHS expressed their dissatisfaction with what they perceived as micromanagement of contracts and operational decisions by Noem and Lewandowski. Notably, Noem implemented a policy requiring her personal written approval for any contracts, grants, and funding obligations exceeding $100,000. Although her aim was to enhance oversight, some officials felt that this policy resulted in considerable backlogs, particularly affecting vital funding for disaster relief.

Summary

• The US Department of Justice is investigating Corey Lewandowski over allegations that he used his former DHS role for personal financial gain.
• The inquiry focuses on DHS contracts and grants approved or delayed during Kristi Noem leadership.
• DHS officials allege Lewandowski approved contracts without proper legal authority, while his attorney denies wrongdoing.
• The investigation followed a referral from the DHS inspector general office.
• The probe also comes amid scrutiny of a $220 million DHS advertising contract and concerns about delays in disaster-relief funding.