DHS Bypasses Bidding to Fund Ads for Noem Allies

A recent investigation by ProPublica has revealed troubling practices within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Secretary Kristi Noem’s office invoked a “national emergency” at the southern border to circumvent competitive bidding regulations for a substantial $220 million advertising campaign. This maneuver raised serious ethical questions, particularly due to the involvement of a Republican consulting firm linked to Noem.

DHS justified this ad initiative by claiming it was essential for addressing a perceived “national border emergency.” This rationale allowed them to bypass standard bidding protocols and expedite contracts to certain firms without transparency. One notable advertisement, filmed during a government shutdown, featured Noem on horseback at Mount Rushmore, proclaiming punitive measures against lawbreakers.

ProPublica discovered that the agency’s primary contractor engaged the Strategy Group, a political consulting firm closely connected to Noem’s previous gubernatorial campaign. However, a lack of visibility around this firm’s federal contracting records raises significant concerns about accountability and integrity in government spending.

The bulk of the advertising budget, approximately $143 million, was allocated to a newly established Delaware entity named Safe America Media, with its subcontractors remaining undisclosed. The Office of Public Affairs at DHS, which is led by Noem’s spouse Tricia McLaughlin, is indicated as the funding source for these controversial contracts, intensifying accusations of impropriety.

Former Wartime Contracting Commission member Charles Tiefer criticized the entire situation, labeling it as “corrupt” and prompting calls for investigations by the DHS inspector general and Congressional Oversight Committees. Tiefer’s comments highlight a troubling trend of favoritism and lack of transparency in DHS’s contracting process, affecting taxpayer confidence in how their money is spent.