Department of Homeland Security investigators are examining whether Corey Lewandowski improperly influenced federal contracting decisions while serving as a senior adviser at the agency, according to a new report.
Investigators have gathered evidence concerning Lewandowski’s involvement in the approval of several contracts during former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s tenure. Officials have briefed current DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin and senior White House officials on the inquiry.
Authorities are considering whether to refer the findings to the Justice Department for possible criminal investigation, though no referral is expected in the immediate future. DHS is reportedly cooperating with the review, writes to Mediate.
Lewandowski, who managed President Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign, served as an unpaid senior adviser to Noem before both left the department earlier this year. Although he was classified as a “special government employee,” the Journal reported that he wielded substantial influence over personnel and procurement decisions.
The investigation is focused on several contracts approved under Noem, including the extent of Lewandowski’s involvement in selecting and authorizing vendors. Some department officials were reportedly surprised by how directly he participated in the contracting process.
People familiar with the decisions said that Lewandowski personally approved certain contracts despite not being a permanent federal employee.
A spokesperson for Lewandowski rejected the allegations in a statement to the Wall Street Journal. “He denied issuing contracts while at DHS and that he had not been contacted by investigators regarding the ongoing inquiry.”
The White House referred questions to DHS. A department spokeswoman declined to comment. Lewandowski has been accused of having an affair with the former DHS chief.
The inquiry is being overseen by DHS Inspector General Joseph Cuffari. A representative for the inspector general’s office cited its standard policy of neither confirming nor denying individual investigations but pointed to previously announced reviews of the department’s contracting practices.
The investigation could carry significant political consequences because of Lewandowski’s longstanding relationship with Trump and his prominent role in the president’s political orbit.
No charges have been filed, and Lewandowski has not been formally notified that he is under investigation, according to his representative.
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