Corey Lewandowski and Kristi Noem remain prominent figures in Republican politics as of February 13, 2026, with Lewandowski active in national conservative strategy circles and Noem serving as the Governor of South Dakota. Both continue to influence GOP messaging, grassroots mobilization, and national policy debates, keeping their names frequently in political headlines.
For U.S. readers tracking conservative leadership and national campaign strategy, understanding the current status of Corey Lewandowski and Kristi Noem requires a close look at their official roles, recent public activity, and confirmed political positions.
Table of Contents
Kristi Noem’s Current Role as South Dakota Governor
Kristi Noem is serving her second term as Governor of South Dakota. She was first elected in 2018 and reelected in 2022. Her current term runs through January 2027.
In 2025 and early 2026, Noem has continued to focus on issues central to her administration:
- Border security advocacy at the federal level
- Agriculture and rural economic development
- State-level tax policy
- Public safety initiatives
Noem has maintained a visible national presence. She regularly appears at conservative policy conferences and campaign events. Her national profile increased significantly during the 2024 presidential election cycle, when she endorsed former President Donald Trump.
Although speculation once surrounded her potential selection as a vice-presidential candidate in 2024, she was not chosen. As of today’s date, she remains Governor and has not announced a bid for federal office.
Corey Lewandowski’s Current Political Activity
Corey Lewandowski, best known as Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign manager, continues to work in Republican political strategy and consulting.
As of 2026:
- Lewandowski is not holding elected office.
- He remains active in conservative political organizing.
- He appears regularly in national media commentary and campaign strategy discussions.
In 2021, Lewandowski faced allegations of inappropriate conduct during a political event. He denied wrongdoing. After that period, he stepped back from certain public campaign roles but later reemerged in political advisory spaces.
By 2024 and 2025, Lewandowski returned to visible involvement in Republican campaign efforts, particularly in grassroots mobilization and messaging strategy aligned with Trump-aligned candidates.
Professional Intersections Between Corey Lewandowski and Kristi Noem
Corey Lewandowski and Kristi Noem have intersected professionally within Republican political circles, particularly during national election cycles and conservative policy events.
Both figures have:
- Appeared at major GOP conferences.
- Participated in campaign-related events.
- Publicly supported conservative platforms emphasizing border security and limited federal government.
Their association has been political rather than institutional. Lewandowski has not held an official position within South Dakota’s state government under Noem’s administration.
Public appearances and campaign activities often place high-profile Republican strategists and governors in the same settings. However, as of February 2026, no official joint policy initiative or formal working partnership has been announced between them.
Noem’s National Political Influence in 2025–2026
Kristi Noem continues to be considered one of the most nationally recognized Republican governors.
Her recent activity includes:
- Public speeches on energy independence.
- Advocacy for state-level authority in education policy.
- Support for agricultural producers facing economic pressures.
Noem has emphasized South Dakota’s low-tax environment and business climate. The state maintains no individual income tax, a point she frequently highlights in public addresses.
In early 2026, Noem remains focused on state governance. She has not formally declared intentions regarding a 2028 presidential campaign.
Lewandowski’s Role in Conservative Strategy
Corey Lewandowski’s influence comes primarily through campaign advising and media engagement.
He built his reputation on:
- Direct messaging strategies.
- Strong grassroots voter mobilization.
- Loyalty-driven campaign structures.
Since 2024, he has participated in conservative strategy discussions centered on maintaining momentum within the Republican base.
His experience managing Trump’s 2016 campaign remains a defining credential. That campaign reshaped Republican communication tactics and digital outreach strategies.
As of today, Lewandowski has not announced any candidacy for public office.
Timeline of Notable Public Developments
Below is a factual timeline highlighting significant milestones relevant to Corey Lewandowski and Kristi Noem:
Kristi Noem
- 2018: Elected Governor of South Dakota.
- 2022: Reelected for a second term.
- 2024: Publicly supported Donald Trump during the presidential election cycle.
- 2025–2026: Continues serving as Governor with national political visibility.
Corey Lewandowski
- 2016: Served as Donald Trump’s campaign manager.
- 2021: Faced allegations related to misconduct; denied wrongdoing.
- 2024–2026: Active in Republican campaign strategy and media commentary.
Public Image and Media Presence
Both figures maintain strong media profiles.
Kristi Noem:
- Frequently appears on national television programs.
- Engages directly with supporters via social media.
- Speaks at conservative policy forums.
Corey Lewandowski:
- Participates in televised political commentary.
- Attends GOP fundraising and strategy events.
- Maintains an advisory presence in conservative political circles.
Their communication styles differ. Noem often emphasizes executive leadership and policy outcomes. Lewandowski focuses on messaging discipline and campaign mechanics.
Policy Alignment and Political Messaging
Corey Lewandowski and Kristi Noem share several areas of ideological alignment:
- Strong support for border enforcement.
- Advocacy for reduced federal regulation.
- Emphasis on energy production and domestic development.
- Defense of Second Amendment rights.
Noem implements policy at the state level. Lewandowski shapes national messaging and campaign tactics. Their overlap occurs primarily in shared political goals rather than direct administrative collaboration.
South Dakota’s Political Landscape in 2026
South Dakota remains a reliably Republican state. Noem’s administration continues to focus on:
- Budget management.
- Rural healthcare access.
- Agricultural resilience.
- Workforce development.
The state legislature maintains a Republican majority. This alignment allows Noem to advance much of her policy agenda.
As governor, she plays a direct executive role. Lewandowski, by contrast, influences politics through advisory channels rather than governing authority.
Clarifying Public Speculation
At times, public commentary has speculated about expanded political collaboration between Corey Lewandowski and Kristi Noem. As of February 13, 2026:
- Lewandowski does not hold an official position in South Dakota’s government.
- Noem has not announced a federal campaign.
- No joint formal initiative has been confirmed.
Separating verified developments from speculation remains important in understanding their current standing.
Why Their Names Continue to Appear Together
Political news cycles often group prominent Republican figures during national election seasons. Lewandowski’s longstanding relationship with Trump-aligned campaign structures and Noem’s national visibility contribute to overlapping coverage.
Their shared presence at high-profile events fuels continued media interest.
For U.S. audiences, their relevance lies in:
- Ongoing conservative strategy debates.
- State-level governance models.
- Republican leadership dynamics ahead of future election cycles.
Current Status Summary (February 2026)
| Name | Current Role | Elected Office | National Activity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kristi Noem | Governor of South Dakota | Yes | Active speaker and policy advocate |
| Corey Lewandowski | Political strategist | No | Active in GOP campaign advising |
This table reflects the most current confirmed information available as of today.
Corey Lewandowski and Kristi Noem continue to shape Republican political conversations in distinct but visible ways. Noem governs a conservative state while maintaining national relevance. Lewandowski operates behind the scenes in campaign strategy and public messaging.
What are your thoughts on their roles in today’s Republican Party? Share your perspective and stay updated on the latest political developments.
