Kristi Noem and the Lewandowski Exit: A Developing Story
The political landscape surrounding South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem is becoming increasingly complex. Recent developments include the departure of Corey Lewandowski from his role as a special government employee, a move that follows a controversial period and raises questions about the dynamics within the State Department. This comes after Lewandowski accompanied Noem on a multi-nation tour of Latin America, sparking further scrutiny.
Lewandowski’s Departure and Trump’s Involvement
Four sources have confirmed that Lewandowski is leaving his position, effectively ending his work under Noem at the State Department. This decision, described by a White House official and three sources close to the Trump administration, occurred shortly after the pair were seen together in South America. Noem has transitioned from Homeland Security Secretary to Special Envoy for the new Shield of the Americas initiative, now reporting to Deputy Secretary of State Chris Landau.
Reports suggest President Trump may have played a direct role in Lewandowski’s departure. Two sources indicate Trump expressed disapproval of a $220 million advertising campaign featuring Noem and other contracting decisions made by Lewandowski while acting as her de facto chief of staff. A third source suggests Lewandowski proactively chose to leave, potentially due to his new reporting structure.
Noem’s Staff Transfers and Latin American Tour
Despite Lewandowski’s exit, Noem successfully secured permission to transfer ten of her former Department of Homeland Security (DHS) subordinates to the State Department, as reported by Politico. Her current trip to Latin America, initiated while still Secretary of Homeland Security, has included stops in the Dominican Republic, Honduras, Costa Rica, Guyana, and Ecuador.
Concerns and Investigations
Lewandowski’s extensive control over staffing and contracting decisions while serving as Noem’s unpaid chief of staff has drawn criticism and allegations of conflicts of interest. The Department of Homeland Security’s Inspector General is currently investigating these claims. His “special government employee” status, designed to limit tenure to 130 days per year, was reportedly extended through 2026 by circumventing standard log-in procedures.
This arrangement allowed Lewandowski to avoid financial disclosures intended to prevent self-dealing in government work. His presence alongside Noem during her recent visit to Guyana, documented in photos and videos, highlighted his continued influence. The US Embassy stated the visit aimed to strengthen the American partnership with Guyana and address shared priorities, including combating drug cartels and illegal immigration.
Looking Ahead
The full impact of Lewandowski’s departure on his future travel with Noem remains unclear. He has not responded to requests for comment, and the State Department has yet to issue an official statement. This situation continues to unfold, raising important questions about transparency, accountability, and the evolving relationship between Kristi Noem and those around her.
For further information on the Shield of the Americas initiative, visit the U.S. Department of State website.
