March 26 - The Department of Homeland Security Inspector General has opened an investigation into the solicitation and administration of certain contracts, with the inquiry encompassing the reported roles of former DHS Secretary Kristi Noem and her aide Corey Lewandowski, two sources familiar with the probe told CNN.
According to those sources, the investigation examines how contracts were sought and processed. CNN reported the probe is separate from an inspector general audit that is reviewing DHS grants and contracts awarded during fiscal year 2025.
The DHS did not immediately provide a response to a request for comment on the matter.
Noem had been the subject of congressional questioning in early March related to a $220 million advertising campaign. Lawmakers raised concerns that the campaign was awarded to firms connected to Republican circles without a conventional contract bidding process.
Following those hearings, U.S. President Donald Trump removed Noem from her role at DHS, announcing her reassignment as a special envoy for a new "Shield of the Americas" initiative, which he described as intended to promote his security policies in the Western Hemisphere. Noem has since been succeeded as DHS secretary by former U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin.
Summary of the developments:
- The DHS Inspector General has launched a probe into contract solicitation and handling that reportedly involves Kristi Noem and Corey Lewandowski, according to two sources cited by CNN.
- The probe is distinct from a separate inspector general audit focused on grants and contracts awarded in fiscal year 2025.
- Congressional scrutiny in early March centered on a $220 million ad campaign awarded without a standard bidding process; President Trump removed Noem from DHS after the hearings and named her a special envoy for a new initiative, and Markwayne Mullin is now DHS secretary.
The investigation and the parallel audit underscore ongoing oversight activity related to DHS contracting and grant practices. At this stage, DHS officials have not issued a formal comment responding to inquiries about the new probe.