Mounting Scrutiny Over NoemS DHS Ad deal: investigations Launched Amid Ethics Concerns
A growing chorus of concern is echoing through Congress regarding South Dakota Governor kristi Noem’s involvement in a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) advertising campaign. The controversy centers around a contract awarded to The strategy Group, a firm with deep ties to both Noem and key DHS personnel, sparking allegations of potential ethics violations and misuse of taxpayer funds.
Here’s a breakdown of the unfolding situation and what it means for you:
The Core of the Controversy
ProPublica’s recent examination revealed that The Strategy group performed undisclosed work for DHS, including filming an ad featuring Governor Noem at Mount Rushmore. This ad, aimed at discouraging illegal immigration, raises questions about the appropriateness of using taxpayer dollars to promote a political figure.
The connections are particularly troubling:
* Campaign Ties: The Strategy Group played a significant role in Noem’s previous gubernatorial campaign.
* internal Connections: Corey Lewandowski, a top aide to Noem at DHS, has a close working relationship with the firm.
* Conflict of Interest: Tricia McLaughlin, head of the DHS Office of Public Affairs (which funded the ad contracts), is married to Ben Yoho, the CEO of the Strategy Group.
Multiple federal contracting experts have already flagged these connections as potential breaches of ethics rules.
Congressional Response: Demands for Accountability
The allegations have prompted swift action from Democratic lawmakers.
* IG Investigation Requested: Senator Peter Welch has formally requested an investigation by the DHS Inspector General.
* Document demands: Representatives Bennie thompson and Robert Garcia, ranking members of key House committees, have demanded copies of all communications between Noem, her aides, and anyone associated with The Strategy Group or a related Delaware LLC. They are investigating whether Noem improperly benefited her associates at taxpayer expense.
* Calls for Resignation: House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has called for Noem to resign,labeling the situation as “corruption.” Representative Jasmine Crockett echoed this sentiment, stating that “they’re stealing money from the American people’s pockets.”
DHS Response & Ongoing Questions
DHS maintains it followed proper contracting procedures. In a statement, the agency reiterated that it “does its contracting ‘by the book'” and doesn’t directly influence subcontractor selection. However, this response hasn’t quelled the concerns.
McLaughlin, when questioned by ProPublica, stated she recused herself due to a conflict of interest and claimed the agency has no visibility into subcontractor choices. However, critics argue this description doesn’t address the underlying issues of potential favoritism and ethical lapses.
The DHS inspector General’s office has a policy of neither confirming nor denying ongoing investigations. The Strategy Group has not responded to requests for comment.
What This Means for You
This situation highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in government spending. As a taxpayer, you deserve to know that your money is being used responsibly and ethically. The potential for conflicts of interest, like those present in this case, erodes public trust and raises serious questions about the integrity of our government.
This is a developing story, and we will continue to provide updates as more details becomes available.
Watch the DHS Ad Filmed at Mount Rushmore:
https://www.propublica.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/FOX-and-Friends-Sought-for-Ad-2025-11-10.mp4
Further Reading:
* ProPublica’s original Investigation
* Senator Welch’s Letter to the IG
