A damaging Wall Street Journal investigation reveals the Department of Homeland Security operates in a state of ‘constant chaos’ under Secretary Kristi Noem and her controversial adviser Corey Lewandowski, with President Trump reportedly considering their dismissal.
Management Style Raises Concerns
The report describes Noem as prioritizing media appearances over departmental operations, staging immigration crackdowns while wearing agency-branded gear with ‘TV-ready hair and makeup.’ Sources indicate she frequently berated staff when border czar Tom Homan appeared on television, tracking their respective media coverage to ensure she received more airtime than her colleague. On multiple occasions, Noem allegedly demanded larger audiences at conferences than Homan drew.
DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin dismissed the allegations as ‘salacious, baseless gossip,’ stating the department focuses on protecting American citizens rather than addressing media speculation. A departmental spokesperson previously challenged several claims made in the Wall Street Journal investigation.
Personal Controversies Surface
The investigation revisited persistent rumors about an alleged extramarital relationship between Noem and Lewandowski, both married individuals who have repeatedly denied such claims. According to the report, Trump rejected Lewandowski as Noem’s chief of staff due to these relationship concerns, which the president continues discussing with advisers. Following tabloid photographs showing Lewandowski frequenting Noem’s residence, she relocated to a government-owned waterfront property on a Washington military base, typically reserved for Coast Guard leadership.
Operational Tensions Emerge
The report highlights significant friction between Noem and border czar Tom Homan, particularly regarding Operation Metro Surge in Minnesota. Following the fatal shootings of American citizens Renee Good and Alex Pretti by federal agents, Homan assumed control of the operation, subsequently sending 700 agents home and winding down the initiative entirely. Sources indicate that Noem and Homan rarely communicate directly, creating coordination challenges within the administration’s immigration enforcement efforts.