Gavin Newsom Accuses Trump Administration's Justice Department of Political Probe
California Governor Gavin Newsom has accused the Trump administration's Justice Department of launching a politically motivated investigation into him and his wife. Newsom claims the inquiry is a response to his potential presidential bid and his public criticism of President Trump. Federal agents have reportedly contacted individuals and organizations associated with the couple and subpoenaed records. While Newsom alleges a targeted political attack, a person familiar with the matter denied an investigation specifically targeting the governor. This source indicated the existence of multiple federal probes into individuals around Newsom, including one concerning his wife's taxes, which reportedly originated last year from complaints within California state government.
Democratic California Governor Gavin Newsom stated on Monday that he believes the Justice Department, under the Trump administration, has initiated a politically motivated investigation into him and his wife. Newsom, a long-standing political opponent of President Trump, asserted in a video posted on X that federal agents have approached his friends and former employees, requesting records.
Newsom suggested the probe is a consequence of his consideration for a presidential run and his consistent criticism of President Trump. His office indicated that the inquiry has expanded to include "increasingly personal matters involving the Governor's family and professional network."
A person familiar with the situation, who requested anonymity, denied the existence of an investigation specifically targeting Governor Newsom. However, this individual confirmed that there are multiple federal probes into people associated with the governor, including an inquiry related to his wife's taxes. These investigations reportedly began last year following complaints originating from within the California government, without involvement from political leadership in Washington.
The Justice Department declined to comment on Monday regarding the accusations. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche also declined to answer questions about Newsom during a brief appearance with Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa.
Jennifer Siebel Newsom, the governor's wife, issued a statement claiming the investigation demonstrates President Trump's unsuitability for office. Governor Newsom characterized the situation as him joining a "hit list" of individuals who have challenged President Trump, referencing other Justice Department investigations involving figures perceived as political opponents of the president.
According to Fortune, investigators have subpoenaed records, and agents have contacted organizations and individuals linked to Governor Newsom and his wife. (Source: Fortune)
