Corey Lewandowski and Kristi Noem continue to draw national attention in February 2026, with Noem serving as Governor of South Dakota and Lewandowski remaining active in Republican political strategy. Both figures maintain influence within conservative circles, and their names frequently surface in discussions about the direction of the GOP.
For American voters following national and state-level leadership, understanding their current positions requires a clear look at verified roles, public activity, and confirmed political developments.
Kristi Noem’s Role as Governor of South Dakota
Kristi Noem is serving her second term as Governor of South Dakota. She first won the office in November 2018 and secured reelection in 2022. Her term runs through early 2027.
Since the start of 2025, Noem has focused on policy areas that defined her earlier campaigns:
- Tax stability and business development
- Agriculture and ranching support
- Public safety initiatives
- Parental rights in education
- Border security advocacy at the federal level
South Dakota remains one of the few states without an individual income tax. Noem frequently highlights that distinction when promoting the state’s economic climate.
In 2026, she continues to oversee a Republican-controlled legislature. That alignment has allowed her administration to advance key proposals tied to fiscal conservatism and limited government oversight.
National Profile and Political Influence
Noem’s visibility increased significantly during the 2024 presidential election cycle. She endorsed Donald Trump and appeared at campaign events nationwide.
Although speculation surrounded her potential consideration for national office during that cycle, she did not join the presidential ticket. As of today, she has not announced a campaign for federal office.
Instead, she has maintained a strong presence at:
- Conservative political conferences
- Republican governors’ meetings
- National policy discussions centered on energy and border enforcement
Her speeches often emphasize state sovereignty, rural economic development, and regulatory reform.
Corey Lewandowski’s Current Political Activity
Corey Lewandowski remains a well-known Republican strategist. He first gained national prominence as Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign manager. That campaign reshaped Republican outreach strategies and grassroots mobilization.
As of February 13, 2026:
- Lewandowski does not hold elected office.
- He participates in campaign advisory efforts.
- He appears in national political commentary.
His role centers on messaging, voter engagement, and strategic planning. While he does not occupy a formal government position, his experience in high-profile campaigns keeps him relevant in party circles.
Background on Lewandowski’s Career Path
Lewandowski’s political résumé includes years of work in conservative organizing. After managing Trump’s early 2016 campaign operation, he continued advising political efforts tied to the former president’s movement.
In 2021, he faced allegations of inappropriate conduct at a political event. He denied wrongdoing. Following that period, he stepped back from certain advisory positions. By the 2024 cycle, he reemerged in conservative campaign discussions and event appearances.
Through 2025 and into 2026, Lewandowski has remained involved in strategic conversations shaping Republican messaging.
Points of Public Intersection
Corey Lewandowski and Kristi Noem have appeared in similar political spaces over recent years, particularly during national election cycles and conservative conferences.
Their intersection occurs primarily through:
- Shared participation in GOP events
- Support for similar policy priorities
- Alignment with Trump-era conservative platforms
No official appointment or employment relationship links Lewandowski to South Dakota’s state government. As of today, he holds no formal position within Noem’s administration.
Public speculation has occasionally suggested closer ties. However, confirmed information shows their connection remains political rather than institutional.
Policy Alignment
Both figures emphasize issues central to today’s Republican base.
Border Security
Noem has publicly supported stronger border enforcement measures and has sent South Dakota National Guard troops to assist at the southern border during previous years. Border policy remains a consistent topic in her speeches.
Lewandowski frequently highlights border security as a cornerstone of conservative messaging. He continues to advocate for strong enforcement policies during media appearances.
Economic Policy
South Dakota’s business-friendly tax structure serves as a central talking point for Noem. She promotes low regulation and fiscal restraint.
Lewandowski’s strategic messaging often underscores economic growth narratives tied to deregulation and domestic energy production.
Second Amendment and Public Safety
Noem has signed legislation supporting gun rights within her state. She consistently frames those decisions as protections of constitutional freedoms.
Lewandowski similarly promotes Second Amendment protections in conservative forums.
South Dakota Governance in 2026
South Dakota’s economy remains closely tied to agriculture, tourism, and small business development.
Key focus areas for Noem’s administration in 2025 and 2026 include:
- Workforce training programs
- Infrastructure improvements
- Agricultural market stability
- Rural healthcare access
The governor’s office continues to prioritize budget control and regulatory flexibility. Legislative sessions in 2026 have centered on fiscal management and public safety.
Noem’s leadership style emphasizes direct communication with constituents. She frequently shares updates through public appearances and social platforms.
Republican Party Landscape
The Republican Party continues to define its direction after the 2024 presidential election. Influential governors and veteran strategists both play a role in shaping that path.
In this context, Corey Lewandowski and Kristi Noem remain recognizable names.
Noem’s executive experience provides a state-level model for conservative governance. Lewandowski’s campaign background shapes electoral messaging and voter turnout strategies.
Both figures maintain relationships with party leaders and grassroots activists.
Media Visibility and Public Perception
Kristi Noem often appears on national television to discuss policy priorities. Her interviews frequently center on:
- Federal-state relations
- Border enforcement
- Education reform
She positions South Dakota as an example of conservative governance in action.
Lewandowski, meanwhile, engages in commentary focused on campaign mechanics and political strategy. His interviews typically analyze voter behavior, messaging discipline, and election dynamics.
Their communication styles differ. Noem speaks as an executive official responsible for state administration. Lewandowski speaks as a strategist evaluating national political momentum.
Current Status Snapshot (February 2026)
Below is a clear summary reflecting confirmed roles:
| Individual | Current Position | Elected Office | Primary Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kristi Noem | Governor of South Dakota | Yes | State governance and national conservative advocacy |
| Corey Lewandowski | Political strategist | No | Campaign strategy and Republican messaging |
This information reflects the most up-to-date, verified status as of today.
Clarifying Public Narratives
Political commentary sometimes blurs the line between collaboration and coincidence. Public appearances at shared events do not necessarily signal formal partnerships.
As of February 13, 2026:
- Lewandowski is not a member of South Dakota’s executive staff.
- Noem has not declared a federal candidacy.
- No joint political initiative has been officially announced.
Maintaining clarity about verified developments ensures accurate understanding of their current roles.
Why Their Names Remain in Headlines
Several factors keep both figures in political discussions:
- Continued alignment with Trump-era policy priorities.
- Strong recognition among conservative voters.
- Active participation in national political conversations.
Governors often gain national visibility when they represent distinct policy approaches. Political strategists remain relevant when election cycles intensify. These dynamics explain ongoing media attention.
Looking Ahead
While neither has announced new campaigns as of early 2026, political landscapes can shift quickly. Governors frequently emerge as presidential contenders. Strategists often step into more visible roles during election cycles.
For now, Kristi Noem remains focused on governing South Dakota. Corey Lewandowski continues contributing to Republican strategy and commentary.
Their influence stems from different forms of leadership, yet both remain connected to broader conservative political movements.
How do you see their roles evolving in the coming years? Join the conversation and stay informed on the latest developments in American politics.