DHS Audit Puts Kristi Noem and Corey Lewandowski in the Hot Seat

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DHS Audit Puts Kristi Noem and Corey Lewandowski in the Hot Seat

News (2 / 1) 27.03.2026 18:58 / Tim


Expensive Ads and Questions

The agency drew criticism after spending about $220 million on ads featuring then-Secretary Noem, including a horseback spot near Mount Rushmore. Vendor records cited horse rentals at $20,000, $3,781 for hair and makeup and $52,599 for videography. Noem told Congress she claimed former President Trump approved the ad; Trump later said he "never knew anything" about it.

Allegations, Denials and Staffing Moves

Noem was removed from her DHS role on March 5 and reassigned as Special Envoy for The Shield of the Americas, while Lewandowski left his DHS post. Reports say investigators are examining claims Lewandowski sought a kickback from a private prison contractor to win a multibillion-dollar contract. Rep. Robert Garcia called for answers; Lewandowski has denied the allegations. Both have faced reports of a personal relationship, which Noem called "tabloid garbage." As of March 27, 2026 the inquiry remains active.