Significant changes to Donald Trump's cabinet are being forecast for the new year, with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem reportedly facing potential dismissal amid concerns about her close relationship with unpaid adviser Corey Lewandowski.
Internal Tensions at Homeland Security
According to multiple reports, White House officials have grown weary of the outsized influence wielded by Lewandowski within the Department of Homeland Security. The former Trump campaign manager serves as a senior adviser to Noem in a temporary, unpaid capacity as a 'special government employee' – the same status previously held by Elon Musk during his brief government efficiency role.
Despite public praise from President Trump for Noem's performance in implementing his anti-immigration and mass deportation agenda, behind-the-scenes discussions suggest her position may be vulnerable. Administration officials speaking anonymously to CNN indicated that at least two department heads could exit following the first anniversary of Trump's second inauguration in January.
The Lewandowski Problem
Corey Lewandowski, the pugilistic former New Hampshire police officer turned political consultant, has become a central point of concern within the administration. Despite his unpaid role, he has amassed significant power at DHS, developing a reputation for berating officials perceived as slow-walking the Trump agenda.
A DHS spokesperson confirmed to CNN that Lewandowski 'certainly has a reputation of reprimanding officials who impede or slow down the administration'. The unpaid adviser has involved himself in decisions to fire career experts and place others on administrative leave, according to sources familiar with the department's operations.
The close personal relationship between Noem and Lewandowski has raised eyebrows among top administration aides. Both have previously denied allegations of being in a romantic or sexual relationship, but they are frequently seen together, fueling internal discussions about propriety and management.
Counting Down to Potential Changes
Current records show Lewandowski has approximately 40 days remaining in his 130-day work allowance for the current 365-day period, which began when Trump's term started. This clock will reset on January 20, potentially giving him another 130 days in his unpaid role unless changes are made.
The situation reached a critical point after a tense September Oval Office meeting where Lewandowski accompanied Noem to discuss department management. People familiar with the meeting described it as contentious, leaving President Trump irritated with Lewandowski's involvement.
A person close to the administration told CNN that while Trump 'likes' Noem, it 'has been brought to his attention that [Lewandowski] is a problem,' adding that DHS 'is being mismanaged' because of his influence.
However, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt has denied any cabinet shakeup is under consideration, attacking CNN's reporting by stating: 'The cabinet is not changing no matter how much CNN wishes that it would because it thrives off drama.'
The potential shakeup comes despite what has been a remarkably stable cabinet year for the Trump administration compared to the tumultuous revolving door that characterized his first year in office during his initial term.
