In the wake of escalating tensions surrounding the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti in Minneapolis, a major internal conflict has erupted within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Corey Lewandowski, a key advisor known for his resilience in political battles, appears poised for removal after allegedly orchestrating efforts to deflect blame onto Stephen Miller, one of President Trump’s most trusted aides.
The Minneapolis Incident and Initial Response
The controversy stems from the January 2026 shooting of Alex Pretti, an ICU nurse armed at the time, by immigration enforcement agents in Minneapolis. Kristi Noem, DHS Secretary and Lewandowski’s superior, initially claimed Pretti intended to ‘massacre’ officers. However, officials later clarified that agents had disarmed him before opening fire, prompting a swift backlash.
Noem attempted to shift responsibility, stating to reporters, ‘Everything I’ve done, I’ve done at the direction of the President and Stephen.’ This remark targeted Miller, who quickly responded with a public statement criticizing Border Patrol for providing faulty intelligence on the incident. Privately, Miller expressed fury over the blame-shifting.
Alleged Orchestration by Lewandowski
Sources within the administration indicate that Lewandowski coordinated the effort to protect Noem’s position, which also safeguards his own influence. As a special government employee, Lewandowski serves as her de facto chief of staff without needing to disclose private financial details.
Administration officials describe the move as a critical misstep. One official noted, ‘As a leader, if something comes out of your mouth, it doesn’t matter if somebody told you to say it. You should have verified it. You never blame other people or throw them under the bus.’ Another DHS source observed, ‘They are all trying to blame each other,’ but predicted Miller’s loyalty to Trump would ensure his survival.
Miller, often dubbed Trump’s ‘hatchet man’ for his role in the first administration, holds significant sway. A DHS official emphasized, ‘It’s not Noem, it’s Miller… What he says, Trump will go by.’
Power Struggles and Sidelining of Key Figures
President Trump has responded to the immigration enforcement crisis by sidelining Noem and Lewandowski from the Minneapolis operations. He appointed border czar Tom Homan to lead the response, who announced a potential ‘draw down’ of enforcement if local officials cooperate.
Homan’s press conference featured Border Patrol Commissioner Rodney Scott prominently, highlighting their alliance and Noem’s weakened position. Sources reveal prior attempts by Noem and Lewandowski to oust Scott, which faced resistance from White House allies of Homan.
A DHS official explained, ‘Rodney and Homan grew up together in the agency. They’re going to stick up for each other. That’s why Rodney was up there this morning behind Homan and not her.’ The feud intensified last September when bribery allegations against Homan surfaced, reportedly leaked by Lewandowski. Homan has denied the claims, and the Justice Department closed the investigation after Trump’s inauguration.
Lewandowski has accused Homan of media leaks, including one about his own demands for an ICE badge and gun. In response, White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson defended Homan, stating, ‘Tom Homan is an American patriot who does not leak to the media and is very respectful of the White House’s press processes. The American people are grateful for Tom’s critical work securing the border and Making America Safe Again.’
Potential Shakeup in DHS Leadership
Amid whispers of a cabinet overhaul, former Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin emerges as a leading candidate to replace Noem. Officials note ongoing quiet discussions, with Noem possibly eyeing a Senate bid in South Dakota or a 2028 presidential run.
Lewandowski’s history includes surviving scandals, such as his 2016 ouster as Trump’s campaign manager. A GOP operative remarked, ‘Corey is like a cockroach; he just never goes away and always survives.’ However, insiders now view this conflict as a turning point.
Noem’s influence remains tied to Lewandowski, who advised her during her governorship. A DHS official warned, ‘He makes bad decisions, and he always wants to be with Kristi. That is going to be her downfall.’
Miller’s camp maintains silence on the blame game. His wife, Katie Miller, stated, ‘The Miller camp does not talk to reporters. Full stop.’
Trump supported Noem on Truth Social, suggesting criticism stems from her gender and praising her performance, but the administration’s actions signal deeper changes ahead.
