Jokes Fly at Gridiron Dinner About Noem and Lewandowski
Former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and her rumored partner Corey Lewandowski became the target of bipartisan humor during the Gridiron Dinner in Washington, D.C., on Saturday night.
The evening was filled with jabs at Noem’s controversial approval of a $220 million taxpayer-funded advertising campaign and her connection with Lewandowski, which many believe contributed to her dismissal. Governors J.B. Pritzker (D), Sarah Huckabee Sanders (R), and various journalists shared their takes on the Trump administration officials at this annual black-tie affair.
Pritzker made a witty remark: “I heard that Christie and Corey have a safe word: ‘forgiveness.’” This was likely a nod to recent reports detailing Lewandowski’s comments about Noem’s belief that she could “get away with anything” at the Department of Homeland Security, anticipating a possible pardon from Trump.
The Illinois governor also dismissed Noem’s infamous tale about having to put down her dog. “Did you catch her hearing right before she was let go?” Pritzker asked. “Thom Tillis really grilled her. She didn’t flinch, like a dog that’s eaten its homework. But we know that’s not exactly true.”
Meanwhile, Sanders chimed in, humorously mentioning that she sought advice from Noem and others before dinner. “Mike Johnson suggested I follow whatever Trump says. John Thune told me to ignore him. And Kristi said to me, ‘Sarah, just tell him the president already signed off on everything,’” she chuckled.
It’s worth noting that earlier in the month, Noem testified during a Senate hearing that Trump had specifically authorized the DHS advertising campaign showcasing her. However, in a later interview, Trump claimed he didn’t know about the ads at all.
Sanders continued to address criticisms, saying, “There are so many podiums for public servants in Arkansas,” alluding to scrutiny about a car purchase that drew attention. “But in Washington, it’s about a $200 million ad campaign and three private jets.”
A musical sketch by Gridiron journalists, dedicated to Noem and Lewandowski’s supposed romance, added to the night’s humor. This piece, set to the tune of “I Got You Babe” by Sonny and Cher, featured journalists in ICE tactical gear singing lines like, “The TV ads have gone too far. Trump doesn’t like it when he’s not the star.” Another lyric stated, “Don’t worry, boss, it’s not too late; we’ll take you back to 2028.”
Notably, Noem’s nonchalant response during a congressional hearing regarding whether she had a “sexual relationship” with Lewandowski was reportedly what pushed Trump to make the decision to fire her.
