Department of Homeland Security investigators have found evidence that former Trump adviser Corey Lewandowski may have improperly awarded government contracts during his tenure as a senior aide at the agency, according to sources close to the inquiry. The findings have prompted investigators to consider whether to refer the matter to the Justice Department for criminal action, though such a referral is not imminent and the investigation remains active. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin and White House officials have been briefed on the probe.
Lewandowski, who served as an unpaid special government employee under former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, denied any wrongdoing and stated he has not been contacted by investigators. He maintained that he lacked authority to award government contracts.
As a special government employee, Lewandowski held a temporary advisory role that allows private-sector employees to work in government while remaining outside the traditional federal workforce. Despite this status, current and former department officials reported that he assumed responsibilities far exceeding those typically associated with the position. Investigators noted that Lewandowski directed personnel decisions and played a significant role in contracting matters during Noem’s tenure.
Within the agency, some employees referred to him as the “shadow secretary” due to his substantial influence over operations.
The inspector general is reviewing multiple contracts awarded under former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, including a $38 billion initiative where U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement purchased vacant warehouses to convert into migrant detention facilities. According to real estate analyses reviewed by investigators, the government paid prices exceeding market rates for several properties.
The department has since sold seven of these warehouses.
Investigators are also examining contracting practices with the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Shortly after Noem and Lewandowski left DHS, authorities conducted searches at the office of FEMA contractor Kara Voorhies, seizing records and a computer as part of the broader review.
During Noem’s leadership, the agency required approval for expenditures exceeding $100,000 to centralize authority over contracting decisions. Secretary Mullin has since rescinded this requirement.
The investigation remains active, with investigators yet to determine if criminal charges are warranted.
