The sudden removal of former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is expected to trigger another major change inside the Department of Homeland Security. Sources say her closest adviser, longtime political strategist Corey Lewandowski, is also likely to exit the agency following her dismissal.
Kristi Noem’s Adviser Expected to Leave DHS
After the firing of Kristi Noem, officials say her longtime adviser Corey Lewandowski is expected to depart the United States Department of Homeland Security as well.
Donald Trump announced in a surprise post on Truth Social that Noem would be replaced by Markwayne Mullin.
The announcement came shortly after Noem faced criticism during hearings in both the House and Senate, where she was questioned about a $220 million taxpayer-funded publicity campaign linked to her department.
According to political insiders, Lewandowski’s departure could follow quickly.
Leadership Changes at DHS
| Position | Status |
|---|---|
| Secretary of Homeland Security | Kristi Noem removed |
| Replacement nominee | Markwayne Mullin |
| Senior adviser | Corey Lewandowski expected to leave |
| Department | U.S. Department of Homeland Security |
Lewandowski’s Influence Inside DHS
Sources familiar with the situation say Lewandowski played a powerful role behind the scenes during Noem’s tenure.
One political insider told reporters that Noem’s political rise within the administration was closely tied to Lewandowski’s influence.
According to sources, Lewandowski personally pushed for Noem’s appointment as DHS secretary and encouraged Trump to select her for the position.
Several current and former officials have described him as a major decision-maker within the department, despite not holding a traditional cabinet-level role.
Controversy and Internal Conflict
According to former DHS officials, tensions inside the department increased during Noem’s leadership.
One former senior official claimed that Lewandowski often pressured department leaders and frequently clashed with other officials.
Some sources described him as the person “pulling the strings behind the scenes.”
Others said senior officials felt they had to either align with Lewandowski or risk conflict with the department’s leadership.
These internal struggles reportedly contributed to ongoing turmoil within the agency.
Rumors About Personal Relationship
Rumors about a possible personal relationship between Noem and Lewandowski have circulated in political circles.
Both have repeatedly denied claims that they were involved in an affair.
However, sources say Lewandowski was deeply connected to Noem politically and worked closely with her throughout her time leading the department.
White House Frustration Reportedly Grew
Reports suggest that officials inside the White House had grown increasingly frustrated with controversies surrounding the department.
Sources say Susie Wiles and other administration leaders were concerned about repeated news stories involving internal disputes and political drama.
That frustration reportedly contributed to the decision to replace Noem.
Support Among Immigration Enforcement Officials
Despite internal tensions, some officials say Noem and Lewandowski were popular among immigration enforcement officers.
Supporters within U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement reportedly appreciated their aggressive support for enforcement operations and immigration crackdowns.
However, critics argue that their leadership style created significant friction within the department’s upper leadership.
What Happens Next
With Noem out of office and Mullin preparing for confirmation hearings, the leadership structure of DHS could soon change significantly.
If Lewandowski leaves the department as expected, it would mark the end of a controversial partnership that shaped the agency’s direction during Noem’s time as secretary.
Officials say the coming weeks will likely bring additional personnel changes as the administration transitions to new leadership at one of the federal government’s most powerful security agencies.
