Full Breakdown
DHS Inspector General Probes Corey Lewandowski’s Role in Contract Awards
7/11/2026, 9:55:16 PM
Investigation Findings
Federal investigators led by DHS Inspector General Joseph Cuffari are examining whether former Trump campaign manager Corey Lewandowski—who served as an unpaid senior advisor and de-facto chief of staff to former DHS Secretary Kristi Noem—improperly influenced the awarding of multiple Department of Homeland Security contracts. The probe, reported by *The Wall Street Journal* on a Friday in early July 2026, focuses on contracts approved during Noem’s tenure, including a $220 million advertising pact and a $1 billion warehouse purchase later deemed over-priced. Investigators are assessing whether Lewandowski “personally signed specific contracts” despite not being a full-time federal employee. The Office of Inspector General is weighing a criminal referral to the Justice Department, though officials say a referral is not imminent.
Official Responses
DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin has briefed White House officials on aspects of the inquiry, and his department is reported to be cooperating with investigators. A DHS spokesperson declined to comment, citing the office’s policy of neither confirming nor denying investigations. Lewandowski, through a representative, denied issuing contracts while at DHS and said he had not been contacted by investigators. The White House referred media inquiries to DHS without providing additional remarks.
Criticism & Opposition
Several DHS employees expressed surprise at the extent of Lewandowski’s involvement, noting that his authority “was unusually broad” for a special government employee. The investigation also highlights prior clashes between Inspector General Cuffari and Noem, suggesting internal tension over contracting oversight.
Verbatim Quotes
- “According to the article, the investigation remains active, a referral is not expected in the immediate future, and Mullin’s department is cooperating.” — DHS source, *Wall Street Journal*
- “a longstanding policy of neither confirming or denying specific investigations,” — DHS Inspector General’s office, *Wall Street Journal*
- “Lewandowski has denied issuing government contracts while at DHS.” — Lewandowski spokesperson, *Wall Street Journal*
- “department officials had been surprised at how involved Lewandowski was in the process.” — DHS source, *Wall Street Journal*
- “personally signed specific contracts” — *Wall Street Journal* report
- “Mullin and his team have cooperated with the investigation.” — *Wall Street Journal* source
The investigation remains active, and any decision to refer the case for criminal prosecution will depend on the outcome of the ongoing review.
