DHS Watchdog Launches Investigation Into Contracts Under Noem, Lewandowski

A federal watchdog has launched a broad investigation into how contracts were handled at the Department of Homeland Security, including the roles of former Secretary Kristi Noem and adviser Corey Lewandowski.

Sources say the Department of Homeland Security’s inspector general is examining how contracts were awarded and managed, with investigators directing officials to preserve records as part of the probe.

The investigation comes after growing scrutiny over contract practices within the agency, including concerns about advertising deals worth hundreds of millions of dollars and internal policies that required top-level approval for many funding decisions.

Noem’s handling of contracts had already drawn criticism and was cited as a factor in her removal earlier this month. Lewandowski’s involvement in department operations, including contract oversight, has also faced scrutiny from officials.

The inspector general had previously opened a separate audit into certain DHS grants and contracts, though that effort has been paused due to the ongoing federal shutdown.

Lawmakers from both parties have raised concerns about transparency and oversight, particularly as DHS manages significant funding tied to immigration enforcement and national security.

Current DHS leadership has pledged to cooperate with the investigation as required by law.

The probe could have significant implications for how contracts are awarded and monitored within one of the federal government’s largest agencies.

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