Story perspectives

Allegations Against Noem: Contract Delays Hurt Disaster Aid

3/5/2026

Summary

Story summary

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem faces allegations that she misled Congress about Corey Lewandowski's contract role.
Internal records show Corey Lewandowski, though unpaid, approved multiple contracts.
A Senate report says Noem's policy requiring personal approval for contracts over $100,000 delays disaster aid by about three weeks.
The delays affect disaster survivors in South Florida and Hawaii, drawing criticism from Senators Gary Peters and Andy Kim.

History

Historical Context

The Contract Accountability Act of 2006 aimed to improve transparency in government contracting after mismanagement scandals, notably involving FEMA during Hurricane Katrina. This legislation mandated stricter oversight of contracts, impacting agencies like FEMA. Today, similar concerns arise with allegations against Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, whose contract approval policy delays disaster aid for survivors in South Florida and Hawaii, underscoring ongoing accountability challenges.

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Story summary

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem faces allegations that she misled Congress about Corey Lewandowski's contract role.
Internal records show Corey Lewandowski, though unpaid, approved multiple contracts.
A Senate report says Noem's policy requiring personal approval for contracts over $100,000 delays disaster aid by about three weeks.
The delays affect disaster survivors in South Florida and Hawaii, drawing criticism from Senators Gary Peters and Andy Kim.

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