The White House is looking into whether Corey Lewandowski, a top aide to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, has gone over the legal limit for his part-time government job.
Lewandowski works as an unpaid special government employee, meaning he can keep his other business work but can only serve in government for 130 days a year. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) says he’s worked just 69 days so far in 2025. But four administration officials told Axios they believe that number is much higher and may already exceed the limit.
Some sources claim Lewandowski avoids using his government badge by entering buildings with other employees and uses his personal phone and email for official work to leave fewer records. The White House has reportedly started keeping a closer watch on his schedule.
On July 3, the White House Counsel’s Office sent a memo reminding all special government employees about the 130-day rule and how to track workdays. Afterward, DHS lawyers and the White House met to discuss Lewandowski’s role.
Lewandowski, a longtime adviser to President Trump, had wanted to be Noem’s official chief of staff, but Trump reportedly blocked it because of rumors about their relationship. For years, both Noem, 53, and Lewandowski, 51—who are married to other people—have denied claims they’re romantically involved, but they are often seen together.
Since Noem became DHS secretary in January, Lewandowski has become a powerful figure in the department. Reports say he travels with her to meet world leaders, sits in on important meetings, influences hiring decisions, and even helps schedule her events. He has traveled with Noem to multiple countries and U.S. cities.
Sources told CNN that Lewandowski’s work at DHS seems focused on raising Noem’s public profile. In July, the two were reportedly angry when Florida Governor Ron DeSantis gave Fox News host Steve Doocy the first tour of a new immigration detention center instead of Noem, leading Lewandowski to react angrily.
