LOS ANGELES June 15, 2026 — California Governor Gavin Newsom claimed Monday that President Donald Trump has directed the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate him and his wife, Jennifer Siebel Newsom, in what he described as political retaliation for his criticism of the president and potential interest in a 2028 presidential run.
In a nearly five-minute video statement posted to X, Newsom said federal agents have recently contacted family friends, former employees, and associates, issuing grand jury subpoenas and demanding records. “They have not found a crime — they are simply trying to find one,” he stated. “Donald Trump isn’t just coming after me because of mean tweets, but because I am considering running for President.”
Newsom added, “We have nothing to hide. Mr. President, come after me. I am not going anywhere.” He specifically urged Trump to “leave my wife and family out of your personal vendetta.”
Sources familiar with the matter indicate that federal investigations related to Newsom and his wife have been underway for approximately a year, originating from the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Eastern District of California (Sacramento) rather than directives from Washington. One probe focuses on Jennifer Siebel Newsom’s taxes and finances tied to her nonprofit work, including the California Partners Project, a gender equity organization she co-founded. State disclosures show Newsom has helped solicit over $4 million in donations for the group since 2020.
Another investigation involves Newsom’s former chief of staff, Dana Williamson, who recently pleaded guilty to federal fraud charges. Newsom’s office has not received subpoenas directly, but associates have been questioned.
The Justice Department has not publicly confirmed the investigations or commented on Newsom’s allegations.
Newsom, a prominent Democrat and frequent Trump critic, has positioned himself as a leading voice of opposition during Trump’s second term. Critics, including many on social media and Republicans, point to longstanding questions about California’s handling of homelessness funding, no-bid contracts, state budget issues, and potential conflicts involving the governor’s family nonprofits as legitimate grounds for scrutiny.
Newsom’s supporters view the timing and scope as evidence of weaponization of federal law enforcement against political opponents.
This development comes amid broader national debates over the use of federal investigations in high-profile political cases. Neither Newsom nor Siebel Newsom has been charged with any wrongdoing.
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