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Kristi Noem Leaves Controversial Contract Backlog as DHS Chief

3/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

Kristi Noem, the outgoing U.S. Homeland Security Secretary, leaves a backlog of contracts as she departs at the end of March.
Noem's policy requiring personal approval for contracts over $100,000 stems the backlog.
U.S. President Donald Trump announced her removal amid frustration over a $220 million ad campaign.
Corey Lewandowski, her chief of staff, defended the system and claimed it saved $15 billion, without confirming whether it would continue.

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Story summary

Kristi Noem, the outgoing U.S. Homeland Security Secretary, leaves a backlog of contracts as she departs at the end of March.
Noem's policy requiring personal approval for contracts over $100,000 stems the backlog.
U.S. President Donald Trump announced her removal amid frustration over a $220 million ad campaign.
Corey Lewandowski, her chief of staff, defended the system and claimed it saved $15 billion, without confirming whether it would continue.