Justice Department Investigating Corey Lewandowski for Alleged Financial Misconduct at DHS

The U.S. Department of Justice is investigating Corey Lewandowski, a former aide to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem, to determine if he personally profited from his position. The investigation stems from contracts the agency entered into under Noem's leadership.

Lewandowski served as a special government employee, working closely with Noem until both were removed in March amid controversies. DHS officials told Reuters that Lewandowski allegedly approved some DHS contracts and put certain grants and contracts on hold, including some involving the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), without the legal authority to do so.

Special government employees typically serve as temporary advisers with strict limitations on their work and responsibilities. The Justice Department initiated its inquiry after receiving a referral from the DHS Office of Inspector General, which monitors the agency's conduct.

At DHS, Lewandowski functioned as Noem's de facto chief of staff. Noem herself faced scrutiny over a $220 million advertising contract awarded to companies with ties to her and her inner circle shortly before she left office.

The Wall Street Journal has also reported that Lewandowski allegedly attempted to leverage his DHS role for personal financial gain by soliciting private work from Middle Eastern countries to assist with visa and other DHS-related matters.

Lewandowski, who managed Trump's 2016 presidential campaign and advised his 2024 campaign, has denied any wrongdoing. His attorney, Adam Trigg, stated that Lewandowski has not been contacted by the Justice Department regarding any investigation.

When asked about the probe on Thursday, President Donald Trump acknowledged hearing about it but claimed ignorance of the specifics. "I want my people to be honest," Trump said. "And if they're not going to be honest, they have to be prosecuted."