Investigation launched into White House aide's timecard
Moreover, the MAGA loyalist prefers not to leave a digital paper trail on government systems by refusing to use his government email or phone number for official business, according to a report by Axios. 'We're hearing that Corey's doing everything — failing to swipe in, working from home, whatever — to undercount his days,' an anonymous White House official told Axios. 'It's fair to say his work is being watched now,' the official continued.
Lewandowski works at the Department of Homeland Security as a special government employee. That means he does not have to submit financial disclosure forms nor stop his private business dealings. However, special government employees are limited to 130 days every year of unpaid work.
The Axios report indicates Lewandowski is working beyond his limited hours as DHS Secretary Kristi Noem's de facto chief of staff. According to the Axios report, four unnamed White House officials claimed Lewandowski has likely exceeded his allowed workdays as a temporary employee. 'Mr. Lewandowski's time is kept by a career DHS employee who submits the paperwork on a bi-weekly basis,' a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson told the Daily Mail. 'He has served 69 days.'
The White House Counsel's Office sent out a government-wide memo on July 3 reminding special government employees of their work limitations. The memo also included guidance for how to calculate workdays. An official with the White House told the Daily Mail that the memo was issued government-wide and 'not directed to any special individuals.' However, according to the Axios report, after releasing the memo, counsel for DHS and the White House had discussions regarding Lewandowski's employment at DHS.
Lewandowski's employment at DHS has been filled with alleged controversies and scandal. In the past, Lewandowski and Noem, who are both married to others, have both denied rumors they are romantically linked. Regardless, the rumors swirling around the pair ultimately led to Trump blocking Noem from hiring Lewandowski as her chief of staff, according to multiple reports.
Despite Trump's rejection, Lewandowski has reportedly ignored protocol by introducing himself as Noem's chief of staff on at least one occasion. Lewandowski's proximity to Noem has made some DHS officials hesitant to move against him. 'Everybody's scared [expletive]' of Lewandowski, an anonymous former DHS official told Axios. 'The feeling is that if they go up against Corey, they're going to lose. And I would have to say they're right.'
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