California Gov. Gavin Newsom claimed Monday that federal investigators are scrutinizing him, his wife, and members of his inner circle in what he described as a politically motivated effort tied to his potential presidential ambitions.
In a video posted to social media, Newsom alleged that federal agents have been contacting family members, friends, and former employees in recent days.
“In recent days, federal agents have knocked on the doors of family, friends, and former employees, not because they found a crime, because they’re simply trying to find one,” Newsom said.
“They’re demanding records, they’re abusing the grand jury process, digging through years and years of random documents.”
The California Democrat argued that President Donald Trump was targeting him because he is considering a future White House run and has been a frequent critic of the administration.
“Donald Trump isn’t just coming after me because of my mean tweets, he’s coming after me because I’m considering running for president,” Newsom said.
The governor did not provide evidence that Trump personally directed any federal inquiry.
According to reporting by The New York Times, federal investigators have recently contacted several people connected to the Newsom family. The report said the inquiries may involve nonprofits linked to Newsom’s wife, Jennifer Siebel Newsom, as well as a prior corruption case involving former Newsom chief of staff Dana Williamson.
Williamson previously admitted lying to the FBI about sharing confidential information related to state litigation involving video game company Activision Blizzard. Newsom was not accused of wrongdoing in that matter.
A person familiar with the federal inquiry disputed Newsom’s assertion that the investigation was politically motivated, telling the Times that the matter originated with federal law enforcement officials in California rather than political appointees in Washington.
Newsom nevertheless doubled down on his criticism of Trump.
“Donald Trump is simply the most corrupt president in American history,” the governor said.
Today, my wife & I joined Donald Trump’s hit list. He has directed his Department of Justice to investigate us. They have not found a crime – they are simply trying to find one.
He isn't coming after me because of mean tweets, but because I am considering running for President.… pic.twitter.com/tVYk3WUvO8
— Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) June 15, 2026
The White House declined to comment directly on Newsom’s allegations, referring inquiries to the Department of Justice.
The reported scrutiny also appears to include questions about Siebel Newsom’s nonprofit activities. Earlier reports highlighted more than $4.4 million in donations directed to the California Partners Project, a nonprofit founded by the governor’s wife. The organization has worked alongside other groups connected to Siebel Newsom that reportedly compensate her for her work.
Neither the Department of Justice nor federal prosecutors have publicly announced charges against Newsom, his wife, or any member of his family.
This story is developing…
BREAKING: California Gov. Gavin Newsom says President Trump’s DOJ is investigating him and his wife, accusing the administration of political retaliation. pic.twitter.com/ZzCKfBHV2W
— Fox News (@FoxNews) June 15, 2026
