Uncovering the Truth: ProPublica Investigates Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem's Aide Corey Lewandowski's Role in Contract Approvals
ProPublica, a nonprofit newsroom, investigates abuses of power and delivers significant stories promptly. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem faced accusations of misleading Congress regarding the authority of her aide Corey Lewandowski. Lewandowski, despite not being a paid government employee, holds a significant role at DHS, assisting Noem in managing the agency. Congressional inquiries into Lewandowski's responsibilities have been ongoing, with questions raised about his involvement in approving contracts.
During a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, Senator Richard Blumenthal questioned Noem about Lewandowski's role in contract approval at DHS. Noem categorically denied his involvement, stating that he does not approve contracts. However, internal DHS records reviewed by ProPublica revealed that Lewandowski personally approved a multimillion-dollar equipment contract at the agency last summer. This contradicts Noem's testimony before the Senate.
Lewandowski's approval of contracts at DHS is not an isolated incident. He has reportedly authorized numerous contracts at the agency, often needing to sign off on significant ones before funds are disbursed. Noem implemented a policy requiring her and her top aides to oversee all spending at DHS, with contracts above $100,000 needing her personal approval. Lewandowski's name typically appears on the checklist before Noem's, indicating his involvement in the approval process.
Despite Noem's denial and a statement from a DHS spokesperson reiterating that Lewandowski does not approve contracts, internal records suggest otherwise. Lewandowski, classified as a "special government employee," volunteers his time at DHS and is not compensated by the federal government. Reports have highlighted delays in the contract approval process under the new policy, impacting various DHS responsibilities, including immigration enforcement and disaster relief.
The involvement of Lewandowski in policy decisions, such as rolling back protections for Haitians in the U.S., has also been documented. His signature, along with other top DHS advisers, appeared on a checklist related to this decision. Lewandowski's status as a special government employee allows him to serve in government roles without adhering to all ethics rules applicable to regular officials and permits outside sources of income.
The controversy surrounding Lewandowski's role at DHS raises questions about transparency and accountability within the agency. Despite conflicting accounts regarding his authority, the impact of his involvement in contract approvals and policy decisions remains a subject of scrutiny. The ongoing debate underscores the importance of clarity and oversight in government operations.