Bulwark Takes: Detailed Summary of "Why Is Kristi Noem Carrying Around $3,000 In Cash?"

Release Date: April 21, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of Bulwark Takes, hosted by Tim Miller and featuring managing editor Sam Stein, the discussion centers around a recent and troubling incident involving Kristi Noem, the Secretary of Homeland Security. The episode delves into the details of the purse theft incident, examines potential security lapses by the Secret Service, and explores Kristi Noem’s professional relationship with Corey Lewandowski. Through incisive analysis and compelling dialogue, the hosts unpack the implications of these events on national security and political integrity.

The Purse Theft Incident

Timestamp: [00:45] - [06:13]

The episode kicks off with Tim Miller introducing the main story: Kristi Noem's purse was stolen on Easter Sunday night by a masked individual, during which $3,000 in cash was taken. The incident, reported by CNN, raised immediate concerns due to its unusual nature, especially considering Noem's high-profile position.

• Details of the Theft:

  • Tim Miller describes the theft: “...Kristi Noem was having dinner Easter Sunday night, and her purse was stolen by a man, a masked man, uh, in the purse. Notably $3,000 cash. Uh, which has raised a lot of questions.” (00:45)

  • Sam Stein adds: “There's more things in the purse, but that was the most notable.” (01:18)

• Contents of the Purse:

  The purloined items included not just the substantial cash but also blank checks, a makeup bag, medication, an apartment key, and a passport, effectively making it resemble a "go-bag."

  • Tim Miller quips humorously about the situation: “...you can't get a new face and then not expect people to notice it. It's fine...” leading into a lighthearted exchange about her appearance and the practicality of carrying such items. (02:36 - 03:03)

• Implications and Reactions:

  The presence of a passport and a significant amount of cash in the purse of a Cabinet Secretary like Kristi Noem raises questions about security protocols and personal safety measures.

  • Sam Stein remarks: “Do you carry your passport around? I don't care.” (01:51), highlighting the unusual nature of such an item being readily accessible.

Secret Service's Security Failures

Timestamp: [03:06] - [05:36]

A significant portion of the discussion focuses on the apparent failure of the Secret Service to prevent the theft, sparking concerns about their effectiveness in protecting high-ranking officials.

• Critique of Secret Service:

  • Sam Stein points out: “That is a legitimate concern. So that's the eyebrow raising elements of it.” (03:06), emphasizing doubts about how the thief managed to get close enough to execute the theft despite Noem’s Secret Service protection.

  • Tim Miller echoes these concerns: “...there have been a lot of Secret Service failures recently.” (04:16), referencing recent incidents that have cast doubt on the agency’s reliability.

  • Sam Stein adds context by mentioning ongoing investigations and reporting: “there have been a lot of issues within the Secret Service I like. I mean, it feels like this your only job.” (03:48), suggesting that recent operational deficiencies may have contributed to the lapse.

• Comparison to Past Incidents:

  The hosts draw parallels to other high-profile security breaches, implying a pattern of vulnerabilities within the Secret Service. This comparison underscores the gravity of the situation and the potential need for systemic reforms.

Kristi Noem and Corey Lewandowski Relationship

Timestamp: [06:13] - [11:04]

Transitioning from the theft incident, the conversation shifts to Kristi Noem’s professional association with Corey Lewandowski, a former Trump campaign chief who now serves as her de facto chief of staff at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

• Alleged Personal Conduct:

  • Tim Miller references a Wall Street Journal report detailing Lewandowski’s inappropriate behavior at an addiction awareness fundraiser, where he reportedly made “very inappropriate advances on a woman, a married woman named Trishell Odom.” (07:02 - 08:14)

  • Sam Stein discusses the implications of Lewandowski’s continued role despite negative perceptions within the Trump orbit: “...he's been working on her pack, you know, follows her to DC Seems to be in some ways indispensable for her.” (09:17)

• Impact on DHS and Political Dynamics:

  The episode highlights concerns within the White House and broader political circles regarding Lewandowski’s influence and the appropriateness of his position, given his controversial reputation.

  • Tim Miller shares past experiences with Lewandowski: “...Corey was hammered at this addiction awareness fundraiser...” (07:02), illustrating the contentious nature of their relationship.

  • Sam Stein notes the peculiar persistence of Lewandowski in his role despite lack of support: “The whole thing is weird. And yes, this is yet another black mark for the Secret Service...” (09:52 - 10:25)

Analysis and Insights

Timestamp: [05:36] - [10:15]

The hosts delve into the broader implications of the purse theft and Lewandowski’s role, questioning standard procedures and the potential motivations behind carrying significant cash.

• Questioning the Necessity of Cash:

  • Sam Stein posits: “Why does she have 3,000? No, I don't. What do you do with $3,000 in cash?” (05:12 - 05:21), challenging the practicality of carrying such an amount.

  • Tim Miller speculates various reasons, albeit tentatively: “You might not want a family member to see what you're paying money on, or a government.” (05:30 - 05:52)

• Speculation on Security Protocols:

  The discussion hints at potential loopholes or lapses in security measures, especially considering Noem’s status and the Secret Service’s typical role.

  • Sam Stein questions the effectiveness of current protection strategies: “Like, some guy walks into a restaurant with a mask on and be like, what the hell is that guy doing?” (04:30 - 04:31)

• Potential Consequences and Future Developments:

  The hosts anticipate further investigations and possible repercussions for both the Secret Service and the individuals involved, emphasizing the need for accountability and transparency.

  • Sam Stein concludes: “There’s a lot of office intrigue about story for sure.” (11:04 - 11:27), indicating ongoing developments and the complexity of the situation.

Conclusion

In wrapping up, Tim Miller and Sam Stein underscore the significance of the purse theft incident and its broader implications on national security and political dynamics within the Department of Homeland Security. They advocate for continued vigilance and thorough investigation into both the theft and the surrounding circumstances, including the questionable handling by the Secret Service and the influence of Corey Lewandowski.

• Final Remarks:

  • Tim Miller urges listeners to stay informed: “We'll keep a close eye on this story.” (11:27)

  • The episode concludes with a call to action: “Everybody subscribe to the feed. Where else are you going to get this? Come to the Bulwark.” (11:30 - 11:39)

Notable Quotes:

• Tim Miller: “With new McValue and McDonald's, you get more than you expect...” (00:00)

• Sam Stein: “There's more things in the purse, but that was the most notable.” (01:18)

• Tim Miller: “Why is the Secretary of Homeland Security carrying a go bag?” (01:35)

• Sam Stein: “Do you carry your passport around? I don't care.” (01:51)

• Tim Miller: “...you can't get a new face and then not expect people to notice it.” (02:36)

• Sam Stein: “How did someone get that close to steal her handbag? Maybe she was like up and out and, you know, in the bathroom and someone came and swiped back.” (03:48)

• Sam Stein: “What do you do with $3,000 in cash?” (05:14)

• Tim Miller: “She's not the Secretary of handbag security.” (01:59)

• Sam Stein: “There's a lot of office intrigue about story for sure.” (11:04)

Final Thoughts

This episode of Bulwark Takes offers a comprehensive examination of a perplexing incident involving a high-ranking government official, intertwining it with broader issues of security and political relationships. Through their insightful dialogue, Tim Miller and Sam Stein provide listeners with a nuanced understanding of the complexities surrounding Kristi Noem’s purse theft, the apparent shortcomings of the Secret Service, and the contentious role of Corey Lewandowski within DHS.