**Kristi Noem Expedites Over $11 Million to Rebuild Naples Pier Following Hurricane Ian**
*Published September 26, 2025, 6:00 p.m. ET*
South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem has accelerated a stalled recovery project in Naples, Florida, after a major donor reportedly called to express frustration over the lack of progress. However, RadarOnline.com reveals that other factors may have influenced the sudden movement.
The historic Naples pier was destroyed by Hurricane Ian in 2022, but efforts to rebuild had yet to begin as city officials awaited disaster assistance funds from FEMA. The agency, overseen by Noem’s Department of Homeland Security (DHS), had not released the necessary funds, leaving local officials desperate for support.
Many city representatives expressed concern, including North Carolina Republican Senator Ted Budd, who reportedly lamented, “I can’t get phone calls back. I can’t get them to initiate the money. It’s just a quagmire.”
According to reports, delays were due in part to a new DHS policy requiring Secretary Noem’s personal approval of all expenses over $100,000. Amid the hold-up, local cardiologist and major donor Sinan Gursoy allegedly reached out directly to Noem to voice his complaints. Following this exchange, Noem—a 53-year-old also nicknamed “ICE Barbie”—expedited more than $11 million in federal funds toward the pier’s reconstruction.
### Connection to Corey Lewandowski Adds Controversy
Interestingly, the pier is located just a few miles from the home of Corey Lewandowski, President Trump’s former campaign manager and Noem’s rumored romantic partner. The pair’s relationship has been described by insiders as the “worst-kept secret” in Washington, D.C., although both have publicly denied being involved.
Lewandowski has stated he had no role in the decision regarding the pier’s funding and was not present in Naples during Noem’s visit.
DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin responded to allegations of political favoritism, saying, “This has nothing to do with politics: Secretary Noem also visited Ruidoso, New Mexico, at the request of a Democrat governor and has been integral in supporting and speeding up their recovery efforts.” Ruidoso suffered severe flooding in July that resulted in three fatalities.
When questioned about the pier funding and Noem’s visit, McLaughlin added, “Criticizing the Secretary’s visit to the pier is bizarre, as she is working to fix this issue for more than 1 million visitors who used to visit the pier.”
### Accusations of Political Favoritism and Misconduct
ProPublica reported that Noem not only fast-tracked the funding but also used a government plane to tour the Naples area. During her visit, she reportedly dined with Gursoy at a French restaurant, fueling accusations that she prioritized political favoritism over the urgent needs of disaster recovery and community rebuilding.
Critics have continued to slam Noem’s overall performance in her role, citing delays in aid distribution in other disaster-hit areas. Senator Budd highlighted the issue with Noem’s direct involvement in approving spending, stating, “Pretty much everything Helene-related is over $100,000. So they’re stacking up on her desk waiting for her signature.”
### “Ice Barbie” Criticized Yet Again
Noem has also faced backlash for her role as the public face of ICE operations. She has been mocked for “dressing up” and participating in what some call “cosplay” as an ICE agent. Conservative commentator Megyn Kelly publicly criticized Noem’s behavior, stating:
> “Stop trying to glamorize the mission and put yourself in the middle of it as you cosplay ICE agent, which you’re not. I can’t stand these photo-ops.”
Kelly further added, “She is an administrative policy person appointed by Trump because she was very loyal to him. Fine, but stop with the glam. She looks like I look right now, but she’s out in the field with her gun, being like, ‘We’re gonna go kick some a‑‑.’ No one wants you there.”
As criticism mounts, questions remain about whether Noem’s decision-making serves the public interest or political allegiances.
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*For continued updates on this developing story, stay tuned.*
https://radaronline.com/p/kristi-noem-fema-millions-florida-pier-lover-corey-lewandowski-ice-barbie/
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