Top Democrats refer Noem to DOJ for alleged perjury

Lawmakers allege Homeland Security chief misled Congress on variety of issues

Mar. 17, 2026 at 5:18pm

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The two top Democrats on the House and Senate Judiciary committees are referring outgoing Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem to the Department of Justice for perjury due to her testimony to congressional committees earlier this month. The lawmakers allege that Noem's statements on a variety of topics including DHS following judges' orders and a controversial multimillion-dollar ad campaign 'appear to violate criminal statutes prohibiting perjury and knowingly making false statements to Congress.'

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing tensions between the executive and legislative branches, as well as concerns about government transparency and accountability. The allegations against Noem, if proven true, could have significant implications for her future and the public's trust in the DHS.

The details

According to the letter sent to Attorney General Pam Bondi, the Democrats allege that Noem misled Congress when she said that DHS had followed court orders, when federal judges have ruled a number of times that it had not. They also cited her testimony over contracts for a $220 million DHS ad campaign and her assertion that President Trump had signed off on it, when Trump later told Reuters, 'I never knew anything about it.' The lawmakers also allege Noem misled Congress when she testified that top adviser Corey Lewandowski had 'no authority' to make decisions for the department, despite reports that Lewandowski asserted approval authority over contracts and grants.

  • On March 04, 2026, Noem testified before the House Judiciary Committee.
  • On March 17, 2026, the two top Democrats on the House and Senate Judiciary committees referred Noem to the DOJ for perjury.

The players

Kristi Noem

The outgoing U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security who testified before Congress earlier this month.

Dick Durbin

The senior U.S. Senator from Illinois and the top Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee.

Jamie Raskin

The U.S. Representative from Maryland and the top Democrat on the House Judiciary Committee.

Pam Bondi

The U.S. Attorney General.

Corey Lewandowski

A top adviser to Noem at the Department of Homeland Security.

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What they’re saying

“I never knew anything about it.”

— Donald Trump (Reuters)

What’s next

The Justice Department will review the referral from the Democratic lawmakers and determine whether to pursue a perjury investigation against Noem.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing political tensions and allegations of misconduct within the federal government, raising questions about transparency, accountability, and the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches.