Kristi Noem’s Inner Circle Shaken as Aides Sidelined After DHS Exit

The fallout from 👤Kristi Noem’s departure from the Department of Homeland Security is continuing to ripple through Washington, with several of her closest 👥Aides losing their footing after following her into a new role at the State Department.

According to the New York Post, three former DHS staffers — Troup Hemenway, Josh King and Octavian Miller — were placed on paid leave shortly after Noem transitioned into her new position as a special envoy tied to a Western Hemisphere initiative, according to a source familiar with the situation.

The move came quickly after Noem was removed from her DHS post, and insiders say the decision to sideline the trio was tied to their connections within her inner circle.

“They didn’t want any people that would be tentacles for Lewandowski,” a source said, referencing Corey Lewandowski, a longtime political figure who held an informal but influential role during Noem’s tenure.

Lewandowski, who reportedly introduced himself as Noem’s chief of staff despite not holding the official title, was said to have wielded significant influence within the agency. His association with the former secretary and their alleged affair became a focal point of internal concerns as leadership shifted.

When Noem landed at the State Department, about 10 staffers made the move with her.