The U.S. Department of Justice has opened an investigation into Corey Lewandowski, a former top aide to former Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem. According to reports from the BBC’s U.S. partner CBS News, the probe focuses on whether Lewandowski personally benefited from contracts signed by the agency while he served as a special government employee.
Background
Lewandowski worked closely with Noem as a special government employee—a temporary advisory position that imposes strict limits on the amount of work and the authority an individual may exercise. He left the DHS in March after both he and Noem were ousted amid a series of controversies, including the fatal shootings of U.S. citizens by immigration officers.
Allegations
The investigation centers on several alleged irregularities:
- Lewandowski is said to have approved DHS contracts despite lacking the legal authority to do so.
- He allegedly placed certain grants and contracts, including some involving the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), on hold.
- Reports suggest he may have sought financial gain by offering side‑jobs to Middle Eastern governments for visa‑related assistance.
DHS officials told Reuters that Lewandowski’s contract approvals occurred outside the scope of his temporary advisory role. The Department of Justice launched the probe after receiving a referral from the DHS inspector general’s office, which monitors the agency’s conduct and operations.
Legal Context
Special government employees are prohibited from engaging in activities that could create a conflict of interest or result in personal profit. If the DOJ finds that Lewandowski violated these rules, potential consequences could include civil penalties, criminal charges, or administrative sanctions. Lewandowski’s attorney, Adam Trigg, told CBS that his client has not been contacted by the Justice Department and denies any wrongdoing.
Political Implications
Lewandowski has long been a prominent figure in Republican politics, serving as Donald Trump’s campaign manager in 2016 and advising his 2024 campaign. When asked about the investigation, President Trump said he had heard of it but did not know the details, adding, "I want my people to be honest." The probe adds to a series of controversies surrounding Noem, who faced criticism for awarding a $220 million advertising contract to firms with ties to her inner circle.
What Comes Next
The DOJ’s investigation is still in its early stages, and no formal charges have been filed. As the probe proceeds, further details about the contracts in question and any potential financial benefits Lewandowski may have received are likely to emerge. Observers will be watching for any statements from the inspector general’s office, DHS officials, and Lewandowski’s legal team to gauge the investigation’s trajectory.
Key takeaways:
- The DOJ is examining whether Lewandowski profited from his DHS role.
- Allegations involve unauthorized contract approvals and possible side‑jobs for foreign governments.
- Lewandowski’s attorney denies wrongdoing, and the investigation stems from a DHS inspector‑general referral.
While the outcome remains uncertain, the case underscores the scrutiny placed on temporary federal advisers and the importance of maintaining clear boundaries between public service and personal gain.