Governor Gavin Newsom publicly claimed that former President Donald Trump has directed the Department of Justice to investigate him and his wife, Jennifer Siebel Newsom, as a response to his consideration of a presidential run. In a video statement, Newsom expressed that this investigation is politically motivated, stating that Trump is targeting anyone who challenges him.
He highlighted that the DOJ has not found any wrongdoing but is allegedly trying to fabricate a case against him. Newsom's remarks come shortly after his former chief of staff, Dana Williamson, pleaded guilty to federal charges unrelated to Newsom's conduct, which Newsom's office clarified occurred before her tenure.
The governor criticized the DOJ's actions, claiming they have been intrusive, including questioning family friends and former employees. He framed this situation as part of a broader pattern of Trump targeting his political adversaries, which could have significant implications for Newsom's political aspirations and the perception of the DOJ's independence