DOJ Probes Lewandowski Over DHS Contracts

The Department of Justice is investigating Corey Lewandowski over allegations he improperly influenced federal contracts while serving as a top adviser to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem during Trump’s second term ^[1]. The probe stems from a referral by the DHS Office of Inspector General, which began examining accusations earlier this year.

Sources familiar with the matter say Lewandowski, who served as an unpaid 'Special Government Employee,' was involved in approving contracts worth hundreds of millions of dollars, including a $220 million ad campaign featuring Noem ^[1]. The IG office requested all DHS employees preserve records on these contracts, including no-bid deals and alleged foreign solicitations.

The investigation also includes scrutiny of so-called 'pay to play' visa schemes at US Citizenship and Immigration Services, where internal concerns were raised ^[1]. Lewandowski has denied any wrongdoing, stating he has not been contacted by the DOJ and denies profiting from his role.

Despite his claims, reports indicate Lewandowski allegedly leveraged his position to solicit foreign officials for private work, including visa-related services ^[2]. He also reportedly avoided formal badge-in procedures by arriving with Noem’s motorcade, extending his tenure beyond the 130-day limit for special government employees ^[1].

Lewandowski and Noem have both denied rumors of an affair, with Noem calling them 'tabloid garbage' during congressional testimony ^[2]. Both left government service in March after controversial hearings on the ad campaign ^[1].

Trump, speaking Thursday, said he wants loyalty and honesty: 'If they’re not honest, they have to be prosecuted' ^[1]. While Lewandowski reportedly told associates he expected a pardon, his attorney denies he ever discussed one ^[2].

The probe is notable because it involves Trump’s DOJ examining one of his allies — a rare move amid broader claims of political bias in public corruption enforcement ^[2]. The public integrity unit has shrunk to just two prosecutors, according to sources. The story was first reported by New York Post and The Independent.