Former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem's husband, Byron Noem, has reportedly acknowledged his wife's alleged affair with Corey Lewandowski, a former Trump administration aide. The revelation comes amid a broader scandal involving Byron Noem's online interactions with fetish models, where he allegedly cross-dressed and shared personal details about his marriage.
Core Facts and Developments
Byron Noem's Admission: According to messages obtained by the Daily Mail, Byron Noem told online models he was aware of Kristi Noem's alleged affair with Corey Lewandowski, stating, "I know. There's nothing I can do about it." The messages also revealed that Byron Noem engaged in cross-dressing and sent explicit photos to the models, some of whom recognized him as the husband of the former DHS secretary.
National Security Concerns: Experts have raised concerns that Byron Noem's online activities could have exposed Kristi Noem to blackmail risks while she served in a sensitive government role. Former CIA officer Marc Polymeropoulos warned that if a media outlet could uncover these details, hostile intelligence services likely knew as well.
Deeper Dive and Context
Background on the Alleged Affair
Kristi Noem and Corey Lewandowski reportedly began their relationship around 2019. Lewandowski, a prominent figure in Trump's 2016 campaign, has been seen publicly with Noem in recent months, including during her official trip to Guyana. The couple has been married since 1992 and has three children.
Byron Noem's Online Activities
The Daily Mail reported that Byron Noem spent at least $25,000 interacting with fetish models, using a phone number that easily identified him as the husband of the former DHS secretary. He allegedly sent photos of himself wearing fake breasts and hotpants, engaging in conversations about his marriage and his wife's political career. The models reportedly recognized him as Kristi Noem's husband, leading to discussions about her alleged affair.
Kristi Noem's Response
A spokesperson for Kristi Noem stated that she was "devastated" by the revelations about her husband's activities. The family has requested privacy and prayers, according to a statement provided to The New York Post.
Political and Security Implications
National security experts have expressed concern that Byron Noem's actions could have compromised his wife's position at the Department of Homeland Security. The agency oversees immigration enforcement and other sensitive operations, making any potential blackmail risk a significant concern. Kristi Noem was fired from her role as DHS secretary earlier this month, though the reasons for her dismissal have not been officially confirmed.
Public Reactions and Media Coverage
The scandal has drawn mixed reactions, with some outlets focusing on the potential national security risks while others emphasize the personal and marital aspects of the story. The Daily Mail, which broke the story, has published extensive details about Byron Noem's online activities, while other outlets have focused on the broader implications for Kristi Noem's political future.