A recent Wall Street Journal investigation sheds light on the working relationship between Homeland Security secretaries Kristi Noem and longtime ally of trump. Corey Lewandowski. The report outlines concerns about management, ethics rules and power dynamics within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that could complicate operations during the administration’s second term.
According to the Wall Street Journal, the report highlighted the following five key revelations:
1. The White House is uneasy about their relationship
The Wall Street Journal reported that Donald Trump His advisers were uneasy about Noem’s close relationship with Lewandowski. Lewandowski’s application to be chief of staff was rejected over reports of a romance, which both men have denied.
Officials told the Journal that the two men “had done little to hide their relationship within the department.” For security reasons, Norm later moved into Coast Guard housing and paid rent.
2. Lewandowski’s unusual advisory role comes under scrutiny
Instead, Levandowski became a “special government employee,” a designation that allows for a temporary advisory role while retaining private-sector income. The White House counsel’s office reportedly examined whether he exceeded the limits of the role. His involvement in directing contracting decisions while still employed by a private company raised concerns at the Department of Homeland Security and the White House.
3. ICE enforcement clashes after Minneapolis shooting
Noem and Lewandowski reportedly rebuked Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons over video showing law enforcement clashes with protesters following the shooting death of Alex Pretti in Minneapolis. The Wall Street Journal said it had previously encouraged the release of dramatic footage on social media, but later blamed Lyon and called for a shift to targeted enforcement.
4. Competition and information tensions within DHS
The report describes friction between Noem and border official Tom Homan. She allegedly stalked TV appearances to ensure she got more air time than he did and to seek bigger convention crowds. Senior administration officials describe the Department of Homeland Security as a major management challenge early in the president’s second term.
Also read: Who is Corey Lewandowski’s wife? What we know about Alison Lewandowski in the DHS controversy
5. Personnel changes and badge disputes
The Wall Street Journal reports that approximately 80% of career leaders in the ICE field have been fired or demoted. Other incidents include an attempt to fire a Coast Guard pilot after a travel accident and Levandowski’s attempt to obtain a law enforcement badge and firearm without completing required training.
Officials who resisted reportedly faced reassignment or demotion before receiving authorization.
