As tensions grow in Washington and scrutiny deepens around the people closest to Donald Trump, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has quietly made a big change—she’s packed her bags and moved into a military base.
But it’s not just about safety—it’s about the growing buzz over her close relationship with Trump adviser Corey Lewandowski.
Goodbye Navy Yard, Hello Coast Guard Quarters
After months of cozying up in the trendy Navy Yard neighborhood of D.C.—just across the street from Lewandowski—Noem is now living in the Coast Guard Commandant’s residence inside Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, a secure military facility along the waterfront in Southwest Washington.
Noem says her decision was driven by security concerns, but not everyone’s buying it.
Critics Aren’t Convinced by the “Safety First” Narrative
Some inside sources are rolling their eyes at the explanation.
One insider mocked, “Public safety is her concern here? That’s rich.”
They claim Noem has shown little worry for personal safety in the past, pointing to her frequent appearances at tense and dangerous events—including ICE raids in New York, a prison visit in El Salvador, the southern border, and even the anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles.
“She and her chief of affair(s) treat every public safety event like it’s a couple’s getaway,” one source added, in a not-so-subtle jab at Lewandowski.
A Political Power Couple Hiding in Plain Sight?
Noem and Lewandowski have long been the subject of rumors about an affair, which both deny.
Still, their close partnership hasn’t gone unnoticed—and critics say it’s getting harder to ignore.
Back in April, DailyMail.com revealed that Lewandowski, 51, was a regular fixture at Noem’s $3,750-a-month, two-bedroom condo with river views.
Conveniently, his own luxury apartment was right across the street—complete with a lap pool, gym, and spa.
“It’s an open secret,” said one Navy Yard neighbor, claiming to have seen them together multiple times in the building’s common areas.
“People have always joked that Navy Yard is like a dorm for Hill Republicans—but now it’s cabinet-level.”
Lewandowski’s Shadowy Role Inside DHS
Lewandowski’s job title may be murky, but his presence is undeniable.
He’s not officially part of Noem’s staff but is listed as a “special government employee” and adviser to DHS. Some have gone as far as calling him her “de facto chief of staff.”
He’s been at her side for key moments—traveling with her on official trips and frequently appearing in public.
But because of his special status, he’s not subject to the usual ethics rules, which has raised eyebrows across the administration.
Who Pays the Rent—and Why Does It Matter?
Noem’s decision to move onto a government base has sparked a new debate: Should she be getting taxpayer-funded housing when other top officials like Secretary of State Marco Rubio aren’t?
A spokesperson for DHS, Tricia McLaughlin, defended the move, stating that Noem continues to pay rent at her Navy Yard apartment and only relocated temporarily because of a surge in security threats.
“She’s leading an agency where assaults on law enforcement officers are up 830%,” McLaughlin said, adding that the Daily Mail report on her living situation had exposed her to doxxing and new threats, forcing a security ramp-up.
The Administration Isn’t Buying It
Not everyone in the administration is convinced.
One official accused Noem of using the relocation to avoid media attention and maintain privacy with Lewandowski, especially after their shared living situation made headlines.
“They’re attached at the hip,” the official told DailyMail.com. “After that story dropped, they got spooked.”
Political Fallout, Personal Drama
As both Noem and Lewandowski are married, the ongoing rumors about their relationship continue to stir frustration—and snide remarks—inside the administration.
Some colleagues are reportedly uncomfortable with Lewandowski’s influence and apparent exemption from oversight.
Despite the backlash, Noem hasn’t backed down.
She’s keeping her Navy Yard condo, and Lewandowski reportedly remains just across the street. But now, thanks to her new military address, fewer cameras—and neighbors—can watch their every move.
Media Blamed for Rising Threats
McLaughlin squarely blamed the Daily Mail for publishing details of Noem’s former residence, which she said escalated threats and put Noem’s security at risk.
“Following the Daily Mail’s publication of where Secretary Noem lives, including photos, she has faced an increase in threats…
Her security detail had to be increased,” McLaughlin stated.
She added, “It’s a shame the Daily Mail chooses sensationalism over the safety of people.”
What Comes Next?
Whether this move quiets the controversy or only fuels it further remains to be seen.
But one thing is clear: Noem’s political profile—and her partnership with Lewandowski—will continue to attract attention as long as both remain close to the center of Trump’s orbit.