The Justice Department has launched a criminal investigation into Corey Lewandowski, a longtime Trump ally who served as senior advisor to former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, following allegations he exploited his government position for personal financial gain through department contracts.
Federal Probe Targets DHS Contract Dealings
The investigation began after the Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General referred its findings to the Justice Department in recent weeks. Sources familiar with the probe confirm investigators are examining whether Lewandowski illegally profited from contracts established during Noem’s tenure at DHS. Lewandowski served as her de facto chief of staff until both were removed from the department in March 2026.
Lewandowski’s attorney, Adam Trigg, issued a strong denial, stating his client has not been contacted by federal investigators and denies any wrongdoing. Trigg emphasized that Lewandowski served his country in a voluntary capacity at DHS. The former Trump campaign manager has not been charged with any crime, and the investigation remains ongoing.
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Trump Responds With Warning
President Trump addressed the matter Thursday after reporters questioned him about the probe. Trump stated he had just learned of the investigation and had not yet been briefed by Attorney General Todd Blanche. However, he delivered a stern message about accountability: “I want my people to be honest, and if they’re not going to be honest, they have to be prosecuted.” Trump added that dishonesty harms both the country and him personally, declaring, “If he’s honest that’s good. If he’s not honest, you have to pay a price.”
Controversial Contract Approval System Under Scrutiny
Under Noem’s leadership, DHS implemented a policy requiring her personal written approval for any contracts, grants, or funding obligations exceeding one hundred thousand dollars. While Noem intended to strengthen oversight and accountability, department officials complained the system created severe backlogs that delayed essential funding, including critical disaster relief operations. Investigators are now examining whether this centralized approval process created opportunities for Lewandowski to influence contract awards for personal benefit. The Justice Department and DHS both declined to comment on the ongoing investigation.