Top Trump ally teases run against red state governor bucking his gerrymandering push
President Donald J. Trump is seen on the phone aboard Air Force One Wednesday, Oct. 10, 2018, as he talks with Alabama Governor Kay Ivey about the latest impact update on Hurricane Michael. | Official White House Photo by Joyce N. Boghosian
Corey Lewandowski, a senior adviser at the Department of Homeland Security and longtime ally of President Donald Trump, is considering a run for governor of New Hampshire, Politico reported Thursday.
The report comes as the White House weighs backing a primary challenge against current Gov. Kelly Ayotte (R).
“Governor is the only job in politics I would ever consider giving up what I am currently doing for,” Lewandowski told Politico.
According to the report, he did not indicate whether the potential run had been discussed with the White House.
The possible candidacy comes amid growing tensions between the Trump administration and Ayotte over redistricting.
The White House is reportedly frustrated with Ayotte’s resistance to redrawing congressional maps that would strengthen Republican control of the U.S. House ahead of the midterms.
The report noted that Lewandowski’s role at DHS has drawn internal scrutiny. Initially appointed as a special governmental employee, a position limited to 130 days of unpaid work per year, questions have emerged about how his time is being counted.
Despite the temporary designation, he has wielded significant influence, with current and former administration officials saying he has veto power over DHS contracts and grants exceeding $100,000.
He is listed on the agency's website as a chief adviser to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and is regularly seen traveling with her.
Speculation about Lewandowski’s future at DHS intensified this week amid reports he might be leaving the department.
Lewandowski addressed the rumors in a post on the social platform X Wednesday night, writing, “I thought it only fitting today to share the words of the famous Mark Twain … ‘The reports of my death are greatly exaggerated.’ Lots of Fake News out there… don’t believe the MSM.”
He previously floated a 2020 Senate bid against Democrat Jeanne Shaheen, which failed to gain traction within the state’s GOP establishment.
