The Department of Homeland Security's internal watchdog has launched an investigation into how contracts were solicited and handled under former Secretary Kristi Noem, including the involvement of her de facto chief of staff, Corey Lewandowski, sources told CNN.
The Office of Inspector General is examining contracting policies under Noem that drew scrutiny from lawmakers, such as her requirement to sign off on any contract worth $100,000 or more, the awarding of a $220 million ad campaign, and whether Lewandowski played any role in approvals. The inquiry is separate from a congressionally-mandated audit of non-competitive contracts.
The investigation follows Inspector General Joseph Cuffari's letter to Congress accusing Noem of systematically obstructing his office's probes. Shortly before her firing by President Donald Trump, lawmakers grilled Noem over the $220 million ad campaign that prominently featured her, amid reports that a company tied to her spokesperson secured a lucrative contract.
Last year, reports emerged that Noem held up FEMA funding by requiring her direct approval of contracts over $100,000, and that she had delegated some authority to Lewandowski, a special government employee with no official role. Lewandowski's lawyer denies he had any role in contract review or approval.
After Noem's ousting, NBC News reported that some contractors were asked to pay Lewandowski for influence. His lawyer, Adam Trigg, stated: 'Mr. Lewandowski adamantly denies ever demanding any payment or compensation from any potential, former, or current government contractor.' Congressional Democrats have also launched investigations into Noem and Lewandowski.
