In a surprising twist, Kristi Noem’s tenure at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has come to an abrupt end, as announced by President Donald Trump on Thursday via a Truth Social post. Noem, who faced intense scrutiny in recent times, will be succeeded by Oklahoma Senator Markwayne Mullin. This development follows closely on the heels of Noem’s challenging appearances before House and Senate committees, where she defended a $220 million taxpayer-funded campaign aimed at enhancing her national standing. Additionally, she faced inquiries regarding her alleged affair with Corey Lewandowski, her closest adviser.

Lewandowski, a key figure in Noem’s political operations, is also expected to depart DHS, according to sources close to Trump’s inner circle. The controversy surrounding Noem’s use of taxpayer-funded private jets for cross-country travel with Lewandowski—who is rumored to be both her lover and the de facto leader of her department—has fueled speculation. Both Noem and Lewandowski, who are married to other people, have denied any romantic involvement. In a recent hearing, Noem was questioned about the alleged affair, to which she responded dismissively, rejecting what she termed “tabloid garbage” and labeling the accusations as “offensive.” A political insider remarked to the Daily Mail, “There is no Kristi without Corey,” emphasizing the deep connection between the two.

A former senior DHS official, who worked closely with Noem, expressed that removing Lewandowski is essential for any improvement within the department. The official accused Lewandowski of being “vindictive” and lacking honor, claiming he manipulated the system to benefit both himself and Noem. This same source indicated that Lewandowski aggressively pressured senior DHS officials and should never have been granted a position there. It is believed that Lewandowski was instrumental in securing Noem’s appointment, having personally lobbied President Trump, who reportedly appointed Noem as a favor to Lewandowski due to his unwavering loyalty to the Trump administration.

The White House grew tired of weekly stories of scandal and infighting as Chief of Staff Susie Wiles had long had enough of her theatrics. Noem’s firing also comes as the vast majority of the department remains shuttered due to a lapse in congressional funding. Lewandowski and Noem took an aggressive approach against the growing bureaucracy in the agency, which had become stagnant on immigration.

Top leaders were faced with the decision to either align with or placate Lewandowski or face the consequences of crossing or ignoring him. ‘There was no greater friend and no fiercer enemy,’ one source familiar with the dynamic within the agency told the Daily Mail. Ultimately, the pair made more enemies than friends in the upper echelons of DHS leadership, even as ICE agents felt empowered by the unvarnished support for their efforts. The Daily Mail has contacted Lewandowski for comment.