Governor Newsom Criticizes DOJ Investigation as Politically Driven

In Sacramento, California, Governor Gavin Newsom accused the U.S. Justice Department of conducting a politically motivated investigation against him and his spouse. This comes as Newsom is considering a presidential bid. He believes that the Trump administration is targeting him for his public criticism of the former president.

Newsom, in a video posted on social media platform X, claimed that federal agents approached his friends and former employees for records. He didn’t provide specific details about the investigation but indicated it is now delving into more personal areas concerning his family and professional connections. On multiple occasions, Newsom has used his social media presence to oppose the former president, stating, “Donald Trump isn’t just coming after me because of my mean tweets. He’s coming after me because I’m considering running for president, challenging his falsehoods.”

The Justice Department’s involvement in the matter remains unclear, sparking criticism alleging misuse of the agency to target political adversaries. A source familiar with the situation refuted claims of an exclusive investigation into Newsom. However, they confirmed ongoing federal probes into individuals associated with him, including one concerning his wife’s taxes initiated last year.

Additionally, there is an investigation related to Newsom’s former chief of staff, Dana Williamson. Williamson faced federal charges for alleged participation in stealing campaign funds from former Health Secretary Xavier Becerra. She pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud in May. This investigation, initiated under President Biden’s administration, reportedly expanded to include other staff members, although Newsom himself faces no allegations of wrongdoing.

The Justice Department did not comment on the investigation. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche avoided questions regarding Newsom during a photo opportunity with Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley. The Justice Department has been scrutinizing several other figures perceived as political adversaries to Trump, including former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James.

Newsom remarked, “One by one, anyone who has challenged Donald Trump has ended up on his hit list, and today I proudly join that list.” His office reported subpoenas for records and outreach to people and organizations connected to him. They allege the Justice Department is “searching for a crime that does not exist.” Jennifer Siebel Newsom, the governor’s wife, criticized the investigation, stating it shows Trump’s unfitness for office.

This dispute is part of a broader conflict between Trump and California’s government. During his presidency, Trump challenged the state on various fronts, from environmental policies to support for transgender athletes. In response, California pursued several lawsuits against the federal government. Newsom also countered a Trump-endorsed redistricting effort in Texas by advocating a project offering Democrats additional seats in California.