Noem, Lewandowski Facing IG Probe Over ‘Shady’ Deals: Report
Kristi Noem and several officials within the Department of Homeland Security are reportedly facing a wide-ranging criminal investigation tied to the awarding of billions of dollars in no-bid federal contracts. The inquiry, launched by the department’s inspector general, has already prompted preservation notices to dozens of individuals involved in approving the agreements, including members of Noem’s inner circle and longtime adviser Corey Lewandowski.
Those who received notices were instructed to retain all relevant communications, including emails, text messages, documents, and phone records, as investigators begin reviewing the contracting process. According to a senior DHS official familiar with the matter, the investigation has been “long overdue,” citing concerns about potential irregularities and decision-making practices during Noem’s tenure.
Reports indicate that both current and former Homeland Security personnel were notified, including Noem and Lewandowski, who were previously removed from their roles earlier this month following scrutiny surrounding a $220 million advertising campaign. However, sources say the investigation extends beyond that campaign and now includes a broader range of contracts approved by Noem’s office. Officials emphasize that the inquiry remains ongoing and that no formal criminal charges or findings of wrongdoing have yet been made.
If investigators determine that criminal conduct occurred, the case could be referred to the Department of Justice or a U.S. attorney’s office for potential prosecution. The probe comes shortly after President Donald Trump reassigned Noem to serve as U.S. Envoy for the Shield of the Americas. Lewandowski, meanwhile, is reportedly leaving his government advisory role and is not expected to join Noem in her new position.
The investigation also coincides with leadership changes at DHS. Former Oklahoma Republican Senator Markwayne Mullin was sworn in at the White House to replace Noem as head of the agency. In recent weeks, DHS contracting practices have drawn increased scrutiny amid concerns about potential conflicts of interest and influence in awarding federal contracts.
Some contractors reportedly told White House officials that Lewandowski sought payments in exchange for helping secure or expand contracts—an alleged practice referred to by sources as the “Lewandowski tax.” Lewandowski has strongly denied the accusations, calling them “fake news.”
Sources also claim that Noem and Lewandowski maintained tight control over six-figure contracts, requiring their direct approval. Critics say this centralized process caused delays affecting FEMA disaster relief efforts and construction projects related to Trump’s border wall initiative. Investigators are examining whether this approach may have bypassed standard oversight procedures.
The inspector general’s office, led by Joseph Cuffari, is responsible for investigating fraud, waste, and misconduct within DHS. Cuffari previously told lawmakers that Noem had obstructed multiple investigations, while sources also claim Lewandowski unsuccessfully attempted to remove Cuffari from his role.
Adding another layer, several of Noem’s close advisers recently left DHS to join her at the State Department. Some of those individuals are now reportedly included in the ongoing investigation as officials continue reviewing the department’s contracting decisions.