California Governor Gavin Newsom has faced new questions regarding accusations that President Donald Trump’s Justice Department initiated politically driven investigations against him. Various reports have revealed that some federal investigations began before Trump’s second term. This timeline has stirred debate over the origins of these inquiries.
Timeline of Investigations
Newsom contends that the current Justice Department is using these investigations as a weapon against a political adversary. However, multiple sources indicate that investigations began before Trump’s return to office. According to CalMatters, two criminal investigations linked to Newsom’s circle have been active for about a year in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California. Sources reveal that these investigations were prompted by whistleblower reports and local complaints from Sacramento. Additionally, one investigation concerning Dana Williamson, a former chief of staff for Newsom, began under the Biden administration.
Similar reports have emerged from CBS News, Axios, The Financial Times, and The Guardian, indicating at least one inquiry started a year ago in California, not in Washington D.C.
Newsom’s Response and DOJ Reaction
Despite the timeline findings, Newsom argues that the current Justice Department has intensified or politicized these investigations. His administration has requested records through the Freedom of Information Act to identify who ordered or directed the present investigation.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche disputed Newsom’s claims this week, stating that the California governor’s allegations are unfounded. Blanche refrained from commenting on any ongoing investigations but noted that Newsom might need to substantiate his accusations. Blanche neither confirmed nor denied the existence of any specific investigation.
Newsom’s office responded on social media, mocking Blanche. They posted a meme implying dishonesty and asserted, “Trump goons know that it’s not a crime to lie to a reporter.”
Broader Investigations
CalMatters reports that Newsom’s team believes federal prosecutors expanded their inquiries after the initial Williamson investigation yielded insufficient evidence. Their scrutiny has since broadened to include Jennifer Siebel Newsom, their finances, and relevant associates. Investigators reportedly examined tax filings, nonprofit work, and certain behested payments connected to the first partner, although no unlawful payments were alleged.
Federal sources have communicated to Fox News Digital that inquiries involving Jennifer Siebel Newsom are underway, though no federal investigation directly targeting Governor Newsom has been confirmed. The Department of Justice, White House, and Newsom’s office have not provided immediate comments.