In Sacramento, California, Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the Justice Department on Monday for what he described as a politically motivated investigation directed at him and his wife. Newsom alleged that the Trump administration is targeting him due to his potential presidential ambitions.
Newsom, a consistent critic of former President Trump, shared in a social media video that federal agents approached his associates seeking records. While specifics about the investigation are scarce, Newsom’s office indicated a shift toward deeply personal inquiries concerning his family and professional circles.
He remarked, “Donald Trump isn’t pursuing me merely for my critical tweets, but because I might run for president and have consistently held him accountable for his dishonesty.” The exact scope of the Justice Department’s inquiries involving Newsom remains unclear. However, this development could lead to further allegations that the Trump administration is leveraging legal mechanisms against political opponents.
Contrarily, a source familiar with the situation disclaimed any direct investigation focused solely on Newsom. They spoke under anonymity, citing ongoing investigations involving the governor’s acquaintances, with one related to his wife’s taxes starting last year. The decision to commence this probe reportedly excluded any political direction from Washington.
Additional scrutiny involves Newsom’s previous chief of staff, Dana Williamson. Federal charges accused Williamson of embezzling campaign funds from former Health Secretary Xavier Becerra. Williamson conceded guilt to counts including conspiracy and bank fraud in May. Initiated by the current administration, the investigation now involves other staff members. Importantly, Newsom remains unlinked to any wrongdoing in Williamson’s affairs.
The Justice Department remained silent on these matters on Monday. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche offered no comment about Newsom during a brief encounter with Senate Judiciary Committee Chair Chuck Grassley in Washington.
Newsom identified himself as among many of Trump’s political adversaries facing Justice Department scrutiny. The department similarly targeted figures like former FBI Director James Comey, New York Attorney General Letitia James, and others.
Newsom’s office accused investigators of fabricating charges, stating, “They are searching for a crime that does not exist.” His wife, Jennifer Siebel Newsom, echoed this sentiment, labeling Trump as unsuitable for office due to his boundary-less tactics.
During Trump’s second term, tensions between the president and California frequently arose. Notable conflicts included efforts to block emissions reductions and attempts to curtail aid for wildfire recovery. California frequently countered with legal actions, led by Newsom, potentially securing congressional seats through redistricting to favor Democrats over Republican efforts in Texas.