Embattled Gavin Newsom Haunted By Criminal Connections

California Gov. Gavin Newsom is facing renewed scrutiny as federal investigators examine people and organizations in his political orbit, including his wife, Jennifer Siebel Newsom, and one of his former top aides.

Dana Williamson, who served as Newsom’s chief of staff from late 2022 until early 2025, pleaded guilty last month to multiple federal crimes. Her case centers partly on a conspiracy to steal from a congressional campaign account tied to Xavier Becerra, the former Biden administration cabinet secretary who is now considered a leading Democratic contender to succeed Newsom as governor.

Williamson also admitted to filing false tax returns and lying to the FBI about her official dealings involving Activision Blizzard, the video game company that had been the subject of a major California workplace discrimination lawsuit.

Her plea has put fresh attention on Newsom just as he has accused the Trump administration of using the Justice Department against him while he considers a possible 2028 presidential campaign.

A source familiar with the federal probes told The California Post that Williamson’s actions could create complications for the governor. Newsom had praised Williamson’s “insight, tenacity, and big heart” when she left his office, despite the fact that she was already under FBI investigation at the time, according to the report.

The investigation into Williamson dates back to 2022, a source told The Post. Other outlets have reported that the inquiry began with whistleblower complaints in California. Over the past year, investigators have reportedly expanded their focus to people connected to Newsom.

Neither Newsom nor his wife has been charged with any wrongdoing.

Tara Gallegos, a spokesperson for the governor, dismissed the federal inquiry as politically motivated. She said investigators have contacted family friends, donors, former employees and associates, while also subpoenaing records and asking questions about Newsom’s finances, organizations linked to Siebel Newsom and personal family matters.

Gallegos said the governor’s office has not been told exactly what the Justice Department is investigating. She accused federal authorities of “chasing ghosts and launching investigations based on conspiracy theories.”