Kristi Noem was regularly accompanied by a familiar figure from president Trump

During a recent trip across South America, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem was frequently accompanied by Corey Lewandowski, a prominent figure from President Donald Trump's circle.


Lewandowski has established himself as a key presence at the Department of Homeland Security, serving as Noem's chief adviser. Initially appointed as a special government employee—an unusual role designed for a limited duration—he is not listed among the department's official leadership. However, he has been referred to as chief adviser to the secretary in various DHS communications. According to a senior Homeland Security official who spoke to CNN on the department's behalf, Lewandowski maintains his status as a special government employee, which typically allows for a maximum of 130 days of service within a year. His time is monitored by a career DHS employee who submits the necessary paperwork every two weeks. The official noted that Lewandowski does not receive a salary from DHS nor any federal benefits.

CNN