WASHINGTON (Diya TV) — Internal tensions and political infighting have shaken the Department of Homeland Security as Secretary Kristi Noem and her top adviser, Corey Lewandowski, face mounting criticism over their leadership, spending decisions, and handling of a controversial immigration crackdown.
A recent Wall Street Journal report detailed allegations of management turmoil, strained White House relations, and questions about the pair’s use of department resources. The controversy has intensified after a fatal federal enforcement operation in Minneapolis triggered backlash from lawmakers and officials inside the administration.
The crisis escalated after federal agents shot and killed Alex Pretti during an immigration enforcement operation in Minneapolis. Noem described the incident as an act of domestic terrorism, a statement that drew sharp criticism.
Some administration officials reportedly urged President Donald Trump to remove Noem from her post. The president has publicly expressed confidence in her leadership. However, internal frustration has grown. In response to the backlash, Noem and Lewandowski requested an Oval Office meeting with Trump. They also launched a series of public appearances to highlight border security, airport safety, and immigration enforcement efforts.
The White House later assigned border czar Tom Homan to oversee the Minnesota operation. Homan has supported a less visible enforcement approach. Days later, officials said they would wind down the operation.
The report describes a tense work environment inside DHS. Senior staff members said Noem and Lewandowski frequently clashed with career officials. They reportedly berated staff and reassigned or removed personnel who disagreed with their approach. In one incident, Lewandowski allegedly fired a U.S. Coast Guard pilot after Noem’s blanket was left behind on a plane. Officials later reinstated the pilot because no other pilot was available to fly them home.
The pair also pushed for highly visible immigration raids. They encouraged capturing arrests on video for social media. After public backlash intensified, they reportedly blamed ICE leadership for the negative footage from Minneapolis. A DHS spokesperson denied claims of mismanagement and called Noem’s leadership a success. The spokesperson said the department has improved efficiency and saved taxpayer money.
Noem placed all DHS spending over $100,000 under her direct approval. Critics inside the department said the move slowed contracts and disaster funding. Supporters argue the policy helps reduce waste and fraud. The department recently approved billions of dollars in border wall construction contracts. Some officials said delays increased costs, including a steel contract that rose by more than $100 million during the approval process.
DHS has also leased a luxury Boeing 737 MAX jet for deportation missions and cabinet-level travel. The department plans to acquire the aircraft for approximately $70 million. Official documents describe it as supporting high-profile deportations. The DHS spokesperson said the jet saves money compared with military aircraft and supports immigration enforcement operations.
Lewandowski serves as a special government employee. Federal ethics law limits such employees to 130 days of service per year. Some officials questioned whether he exceeded that limit.
The White House Counsel’s Office reportedly reviewed the issue but took no action. Lewandowski’s status was renewed for the current year. Officials also raised concerns about his involvement in contract decisions while maintaining private-sector business interests. DHS denied any ethics violations.
Noem has closely managed her public profile. Staff members said she tracked her television appearances and compared them with those of Homan. The department denied those claims.
Earlier this year, DHS launched a $200 million advertising campaign urging immigrants in the country illegally to leave the United States. Some White House officials questioned the cost and messaging. DHS said the campaign was coordinated with the White House and proved effective.
Noem has also appeared in flak jackets during ICE raids and recorded social media videos highlighting immigration enforcement. Supporters say she demonstrates strong leadership on border security. Critics argue the approach prioritizes publicity over policy.
Lawmakers from both parties have criticized DHS operations in Minneapolis. Some Democrats have threatened to withhold funding unless enforcement methods change. Despite the pressure, Trump has continued to back Noem publicly. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said the administration has secured the border and strengthened homeland security. Behind the scenes, tensions remain. Senior officials described DHS as one of the administration’s biggest challenges this term.
