Current and former Homeland Security officials had privately questioned how much longer the secretary would remain in the post following what they perceived as a series of missteps. CNN has previously reported that some top White House officials have long been frustrated with Corey Lewandowski, Noem’s top aide and the subject of some pointed questioning during this week’s congressional hearings. White House officials maintained that the two were in lockstep with each other. Complaints inside DHSHomeland Security officials were stunned by the president’s announcement Thursday afternoon, though some saw her ouster as inevitable. And special government employees work for the White House and the administration.

Source: CNN March 05, 2026 18:57 UTC