California Governor Gavin Newsom announced on Monday that the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has opened an investigation into him and his wife, Jennifer Siebel Newsom.
In a video posted on his YouTube channel, Newsom stated that federal investigators are 'simply trying to find' a crime, suggesting the probe is politically motivated. He directly blamed former President Donald Trump for orchestrating the investigation, alleging it is part of a broader pattern of retaliation against his administration's policies.
Newsom, a Democrat and frequent critic of Trump, did not provide specific details about the nature of the investigation. However, he characterized it as an attempt to undermine his leadership and distract from pressing state issues such as homelessness, wildfire prevention, and economic recovery.
The governor emphasized that neither he nor his wife have been formally charged with any wrongdoing, and he vowed to cooperate fully with the inquiry.
The announcement comes amid heightened tensions between California and the federal government under the Biden administration, though Newsom has often clashed with Trump-era policies. The governor's office has not released additional comments or documents related to the investigation.
Legal experts note that investigations into high-profile politicians are not uncommon, but the public airing of such a probe by the subject themselves is unusual.
Jennifer Siebel Newsom, a documentary filmmaker and advocate for women's rights, has not publicly responded to the news. The couple has been married since 2008 and has four children.
The investigation adds another layer of complexity to Newsom's political future, as he is widely considered a potential presidential candidate. Critics argue the governor is using the investigation to rally his base, while supporters view it as a vindictive move by political opponents.
The DOJ has declined to comment on the matter, citing standard policy regarding ongoing investigations. The case is expected to unfold in the coming months, with potential legal battles over subpoenas and evidence.