Amidst swirling allegations, Corey Lewandowski, a prominent advisor to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and a well-known figure in political circles, is currently under the White House's microscope. Officials are concerned that Lewandowski may be surpassing the legally mandated work limit for special government employees (SGEs). This development unfolds as Lewandowski, a former Trump campaign manager, navigates his role within the federal government while maintaining private sector ties.
Lewandowski's SGE status permits him to work in government for a maximum of 130 days per year, a boundary set to ensure a balance between public service and private interests. However, sources have raised suspicions that he is circumventing this limit. Reports indicate that Lewandowski has been observed bypassing the standard security badge swipe at DHS headquarters, opting instead to tailgate other employees through checkpoints. This alleged behavior has sparked concerns over the accurate tracking of his attendance.
Further complicating matters, Lewandowski is accused of utilizing his personal phone and email for official duties, a move that some insiders interpret as an attempt to obscure his government activity. A DHS source, speaking to Axios, voiced their observations, stating, "We’re hearing that Corey’s doing everything — failing to swipe in, working from home, whatever — to undercount his days. It’s fair to say his work is being watched now."
Despite these claims, a DHS spokesperson defended Lewandowski, asserting that his official timecard reflects only 69 days of work within the first 200 days of the administration. This statement, however, is contested by four administration officials who allege a "gross undercount," according to Trending Politics.
In response to the growing concerns, on July 3, the White House Counsel’s Office disseminated a memo to all SGEs, reiterating the 130-day work limit and emphasizing the necessity of maintaining precise records. While the White House clarified that the memo was not directed at any specific individual, it was shortly followed by a meeting between White House and DHS counsels to discuss the rumors concerning Lewandowski's conduct.
"The integrity of our government's operations hinges on the adherence to established protocols," a White House official told Axios. "Mr. Lewandowski’s time is kept by a career DHS employee who submits the paperwork biweekly."
The SGE role is not without precedent; high-profile individuals, including entrepreneur Elon Musk, have previously held such positions, allowing them to contribute to government efforts while continuing their private enterprise activities. Lewandowski's past is marked by his tenure as Trump's 2016 campaign manager, a role that ended following an altercation with a female reporter. Despite being removed, he maintained a close advisory relationship with Noem, particularly during the 2024 campaign, and subsequently joined her in the DHS after Trump's reelection.
Lewandowski's request to serve as Noem's full-time chief of staff was denied, amidst unconfirmed rumors of a romantic involvement, which both parties have denied. Instead, he was designated as an SGE, a status now under scrutiny.
As the White House's watchful eyes remain fixed on Lewandowski, the implications of his actions are yet to unfold. "His work is being closely monitored. If he’s breaking the 130-day limit, it’s going to come out," an official stated, indicating the seriousness of the investigation.
