Investigations into Gavin Newsom not ordered by Trump administration, source says

Wednesday 17 June 2026 - 09:00

Federal investigations involving California Governor Gavin Newsom and his wife were not initiated by the administration of President Donald Trump, according to a source familiar with the matter, countering recent political claims surrounding the case.

The clarification comes after Governor Newsom publicly suggested that the investigations were politically motivated and linked to the White House. However, the source stated that the inquiries were launched independently by federal prosecutors in California and were not directed by the U.S. Department of Justice in Washington.

According to the information provided, the investigations were opened approximately one year ago by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California, based in Sacramento. The cases reportedly stem from whistleblower complaints and internal reports rather than political instruction from federal leadership.

The inquiries are said to involve potential tax-related issues connected to Jennifer Siebel Newsom, the governor’s wife, who is also a documentary filmmaker and founder of an organization focused on addressing gender inequality. Additional lines of investigation reportedly include former members of the governor’s senior staff and advisers.

The situation has gained political attention as Gavin Newsom is widely considered a potential candidate for the 2028 U.S. presidential election. As a prominent Democratic figure, any legal scrutiny involving him or his family is expected to attract significant public and political interest.

The controversy highlights the increasingly tense political climate in the United States, where legal investigations involving high-profile political figures often become the subject of partisan debate. While accusations of political interference have surfaced, officials familiar with the case emphasize that the inquiries follow standard legal procedures based on whistleblower information.

As the investigations continue, no charges have been announced, and authorities have not indicated any final conclusions. The situation remains under review by federal prosecutors in California.