California Governor Gavin Newsom's claims that President Donald Trump's Justice Department (DOJ) launched a 'politically motivated fishing expedition' against him have come under scrutiny following new reports on the investigations' timeline.
Multiple news outlets, including CalMatters, CBS News, Axios, Financial Times and The Guardian, reported, citing sources close to the matter, that at least some of the federal investigations began before Trump's second presidential term.
Investigations began during Biden administration
According to CalMatters, at least two criminal investigations involving Newsom's circle have been conducted by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of California for about a year. Citing Justice Department sources, the report stated that the investigations stemmed from whistleblowers and local complaints in Sacramento, and that an investigation involving Newsom's former chief of staff Dana Williamson was opened during the Biden administration.
Williamson had pleaded guilty earlier this year in a corruption case that did not involve Newsom. CBS News, Axios, Financial Times and The Guardian also reported similar timelines, noting that at least one federal investigation began about a year ago and originated in California rather than at Justice Department headquarters in Washington.
Newsom maintains his claims
Despite these reports, Newsom argues that the current Justice Department has expanded or politicized the investigations in retaliation for his criticism of Trump and his national political profile. The Newsom administration has also filed a records request under the Freedom of Information Act to determine who ordered or directed the current investigation.
Acting Attorney General responds
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche pushed back against Newsom's claims this week. While declining to comment on ongoing investigations, Blanche told reporters he was 'not sure that there is any truth to' Newsom's statements, adding that the California governor 'needs to address this.' Blanche did not confirm or deny the existence of any investigation.
Newsom's office, meanwhile, shared a meme on social media mocking Blanche with the caption 'Why you always lyin,' while the governor's press office stated, 'Trump's guys know it's not a crime to lie to a reporter.'
Scope of investigation expands
According to CalMatters, Newsom's office suggests that after federal prosecutors were unable to build a case from the Williamson investigation, they expanded their probe to include First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom, the couple's finances, and associated individuals. The report stated that investigators examined Siebel Newsom's tax returns, nonprofit organizations, and certain directed payments, though it was not alleged that these payments were illegal.
Fox News Digital previously reported, citing federal sources, that investigators had launched inquiries involving Jennifer Siebel Newsom, but had not found information on a federal investigation directly targeting Governor Newsom.
The Justice Department, the White House, and Newsom's office did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment.
