Corey Lewandowski, who served as a special government employee at the Department of Homeland Security, allegedly attempted to sell government services to foreign officials for personal financial gain during his tenure at the agency, according to an investigation published Monday.
The Wall Street Journal reported that Lewandowski approached officials from Qatar with offers to provide assistance on visa matters and other issues falling within the Department of Homeland Security's jurisdiction. Similar propositions were reportedly extended to officials from the United Arab Emirates.
According to the investigation, Lewandowski's motivation centered on enriching himself through the sale of government services. Foreign officials from both Qatar and the United Arab Emirates reportedly expressed confusion and surprise at the overtures, as they maintained established working relationships with other senior Trump administration officials handling such matters through proper channels.
Both countries declined the offers, The Wall Street Journal reported. The Department of Homeland Security's internal watchdog subsequently opened an investigation into the alleged enrichment scheme.
That investigation uncovered evidence suggesting Lewandowski may have been involved in improperly awarding government contracts, according to The Wall Street Journal's reporting.
A representative for Lewandowski issued a categorical denial of any wrongdoing. The representative stated that Lewandowski never demanded any payment or compensation from any potential, former, or current government contractor, nor did he seek, solicit, or enter into contracts with foreign governments while volunteering his time with the Department of Homeland Security.
Lewandowski held the position of special government employee in DHS Security from April 2025 to March 2026, during the period when Kristi Noem led the federal agency. Reports indicate that Noem and Lewandowski developed a close personal relationship during their time working together at the department.
The allegations raise questions about oversight and ethical boundaries for government employees with access to federal services and contracting processes. The special government employee designation typically allows individuals to serve in advisory or temporary capacities while maintaining outside employment or business interests, though such arrangements remain subject to federal ethics regulations.