Corey Lewandowski is expected to leave the U.S. Department of Homeland Security after President Donald Trump removed Kristi Noem as secretary on Thursday. Trump has nominated Senator Markwayne Mullin to lead the department, beginning a leadership transition at DHS.
Lewandowski had served as an unpaid special government employee, a role that typically limits individuals to 130 working days within a 365-day period. Despite lacking a formal title or Senate confirmation, officials widely viewed him as one of the most influential figures during Noem’s tenure. Observers often described his position as similar to that of a chief of staff, with involvement in internal management and personnel matters.
Rumors of a personal relationship between Noem and Lewandowski have circulated in Washington for several years, though neither has confirmed them. Noem faced questions about the allegations during a recent congressional hearing, which she criticized as inappropriate.Asked about Noem’s removal, Lewandowski declined to speculate on Trump’s reasoning, saying he would not “get in the mind of the president.” He also said he has not yet decided on his own future at DHS.
