Lewandowski Accused of Seeking Kickbacks for DHS Contracts
Industry sources say Corey Lewandowski sought payments tied to DHS contracts; White House officials were aware of allegations but have not acted.
Raw StoryCorey Lewandowski accused of running pay-to-play schemes at DHS: report
TPMIn Surprise to No One, Lewandowski Was Reportedly Doing Shady Stuff With DHS Contracts
New York MagazineWhite House Heard Lewandowski Kickback Allegations, Did Nothing
Daily BeastICE Barbie’s Alleged Lover Accused of Massive Grift With Secret Cash Demands
NBC NewsSome DHS contractors told White House officials they were asked to pay Corey Lewandowski
Overview
Industry sources told NBC News that multiple companies accused Corey Lewandowski of seeking payments or "success fees" in exchange for protecting or expanding Department of Homeland Security contracts.
During the transition between the November 2024 election and the January 2025 inauguration, Lewandowski allegedly told GEO Group founder George Zoley he wanted to be paid to protect and grow GEO's DHS contracts.
White House officials said they were aware of pay-to-play allegations and have taken no action, in part because aides feared President Trump would defend Lewandowski, according to multiple senior White House officials.
GEO Group held more than $1 billion in federal contracts, and the company later received a $121 million DHS contract in December 2025.
Lawmakers have questioned Noem and Lewandowski about contracting; Noem was fired with a last day set for March 31, and Lewandowski said he has not decided whether he will leave DHS.
Analysis
Center-leaning sources frame the story around pay-to-play concerns by foregrounding allegations and expert warnings while relegating denials. Editorial choices—loaded verbs ("asked to pay," "butted heads," "scrambled"), reliance on numerous anonymous officials and legal experts calling "red flags," and chronological emphasis on meetings and contract changes—create a cumulative impression of possible misconduct.
FAQ
Industry sources accused Lewandowski of seeking payments or 'success fees' from companies, including GEO Group, in exchange for protecting or expanding their Department of Homeland Security (DHS) contracts during the 2024-2025 transition period.