Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem misled Congress about the powers of her top aide Corey Lewandowski, according to records reviewed by ProPublica and four current and former DHS officials. Lewandowski has an unusual role at DHS as a special government employee who is not paid but still acts as a top official.
Lewandowski personally approved a multimillion-dollar equipment contract last summer, contradicting Noem’s Senate testimony. He often signs off on large contracts before any money is released. A new policy requires Noem to review and approve all contracts above $100,000, with Lewandowski being the last in a series of political appointees who must sign or initial a routing sheet before they reach Noem.
Under federal law, knowingly making false statements to Congress can be a crime. However, it is rarely prosecuted. A DHS spokesperson reiterated Noem’s claim that Lewandowski does not play a role in approving contracts, stating he volunteers his time to serve the American people without receiving a salary or benefits.
Source: https://www.propublica.org/article/kristi-noem-dhs-misled-senate-judiciary-corey-lewandowski-contracts