Investigation into Gavin Newsom’s Actions Under Scrutiny
California Governor Gavin Newsom’s assertions that the Justice Department under President Donald Trump initiated a politically charged “fishing expedition” against him are now being questioned. This comes after reports suggesting that a significant federal investigation began before Trump’s second term.
The timing of the investigation has become contentious. Newsom argues that the current Justice Department is targeting political rivals, yet various news sources indicate that some elements of the investigation originated prior to Trump’s return to office.
Reports from CalMatters reveal that at least two criminal investigations related to Newsom have been active in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California for about a year. These investigations, one linked to a whistleblower and another involving former chief of staff Dana Williamson, reportedly started during the Biden administration. Other outlets, including CBS News and Axios, have echoed this timeline, referencing sources close to the probe.
While Newsom contends that the Justice Department is politicizing the investigation, the chronology raises doubts about its inception under Trump. The investigations are reportedly examining various aspects of Newsom’s philanthropy.
Former Chief of Staff and Current Investigations
CalMatters mentions that an inquiry into Williamson began during Biden’s presidency. Williamson has already pled guilty to corruption in an unrelated matter. Furthermore, several sources noted that at least one of the federal probes was launched in California, not from Washington, D.C.
Despite these revelations, Newsom insists the current Justice Department is weaponizing the investigation against him as payback for Trump’s criticism, referring to it as a politically motivated endeavor. His administration is now requesting records via the Freedom of Information Act to uncover the origins of the current investigation.
Reaction from the Justice Department
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche has pushed back against Newsom’s claims, suggesting they lack a factual basis. While he didn’t divulge specifics about the ongoing investigation, he expressed uncertainty regarding its nature, remarking, “I don’t really know.” He stopped short of confirming or denying the existence of any investigation.
Newsom’s office took to social media to ridicule Blanche, sharing a meme and implying that “Trump’s minions know it’s not a crime to lie to reporters,” highlighting their skepticism towards the Justice Department’s actions.
Focus on Financial Matters
According to CalMatters, there’s been a shift in focus towards the finances of Jennifer Siebel Newsom, the governor’s wife, along with inquiries into their personal assets and connections. Investigators have reportedly scrutinized tax returns and large transactions, though they haven’t alleged any wrongdoing related to these payments.
Prior reports indicated that while investigations into Jennifer Siebel Newsom had been disclosed, there hadn’t been confirmation of a direct federal investigation into Gavin Newsom himself. Responses from the Justice Department and the White House, as well as Newsom’s office, remain pending.
