SACRAMENTO, Calif (AP) — California Governor Gavin Newsom accused the Justice Department of initiating an investigation primarily driven by political motives. Newsom claimed the Trump administration targeted him as he considers a presidential run. As a Democratic politician and longstanding opponent of the former president, Newsom stated in a video on X that federal agents have approached his friends and former staff, requesting documentation.
While Newsom did not detail the specific focus of the investigation, his office suggested the probe has expanded to personal areas concerning his family and professional connections. Newsom declared, “Donald Trump isn’t merely reacting to my critical social media posts; he’s pursuing me due to my prospective presidential aspirations and my persistent critique of his actions.” The comprehensive details regarding Justice Department investigations involving Newsom remain unspecified. This disclosure may amplify accusations that the Trump administration weaponizes law enforcement to target political adversaries.
According to an anonymous source, no investigation specifically targets Newsom, but several federal inquiries involve people associated with him. One such probe involves taxes connected to Newsom’s wife and began the previous year, unlinked to political motives. Another investigation concerns Newsom’s former chief of staff, Dana Williamson, who pleaded guilty to a conspiracy to commit bank fraud, an inquiry initiated under President Biden.
Newsom faces no accusations related to Williamson’s situation. The Justice Department refrained from commenting on Monday. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche declined to answer questions concerning Newsom during a brief meeting with Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley on Capitol Hill.
Donald Trump’s political opponents have repeatedly faced Justice Department scrutiny. Among those investigated or prosecuted are former FBI Director James Comey, New York Attorney General Letitia James, former CIA Director John Brennan, and former Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell.
In his video, Newsom stated, “Those challenging Donald Trump often find themselves targeted, and I am now proudly among them.” His office disclosed that investigators have subpoenaed records and contacted individuals and organizations linked to Newsom and his wife. Newsom’s office alleged the Justice Department pursues non-existent crimes.
Jennifer Siebel Newsom, the governor’s wife, expressed that the investigation demonstrates Trump’s lack of suitability for office. She commented, “Trump seems boundless in efforts to achieve his objectives or undermine opponents.” As president, Trump repeatedly targeted California’s Democrat-led policies by restricting environmental initiatives, withholding wildfire aid, and contesting state policies supporting transgender athletes. California responded with numerous lawsuits against the federal government.
Newsom further spearheaded a successful redistricting initiative to counter Texas’s efforts to favor Republicans, aiding Democrats in gaining additional House seats.