Fact Check: Corey Lewandowski Appointed as Chief Adviser to Homeland Security Secretary Noem
What We Know
The claim that Corey Lewandowski has been appointed as the chief adviser to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is misleading. According to a report by the Wall Street Journal, Lewandowski has significant influence within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) due to his close relationship with Noem, but he does not hold a formal title as chief adviser or chief of staff. Instead, he is described as a "de facto" chief of staff or "shadow secretary" by some DHS staff, indicating his informal role rather than an official appointment (Independent).
Lewandowski, who was a campaign manager for Donald Trump in 2016, has been advising Noem since 2019. He has participated in meetings and traveled with her on official trips, providing counsel on various matters. However, the White House reportedly was uncomfortable with the idea of formally appointing him due to concerns about his influence and allegations regarding his personal relationship with Noem, which both have publicly denied (Independent).
Analysis
The evidence suggests that while Lewandowski has a significant advisory role, he does not have an official title or appointment as chief adviser. The term "de facto" implies that his influence is recognized informally rather than through formal channels. The Wall Street Journal and other reputable sources like CNN confirm that he has not been officially appointed to any position within DHS.
The reliability of the sources used in this analysis is high, as they include established news organizations that adhere to journalistic standards. The Wall Street Journal and CNN are known for their thorough reporting and fact-checking processes, making their accounts credible. Additionally, the Department of Homeland Security's official announcements do not list Lewandowski as a formally appointed chief adviser, further supporting the claim's inaccuracy.
Conclusion
The claim that Corey Lewandowski has been appointed as chief adviser to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is False. While he wields considerable influence and is often present in meetings with Noem, he does not hold a formal position within the department. The use of terms like "de facto" indicates an informal status rather than an official appointment, which is crucial in understanding the nature of his involvement.
