Governor Gavin Newsom and his wife, First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom
California Governor Gavin Newsom said he and his wife, First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom, have “nothing to hide” as they face what he described as a new federal investigation, accusing President Donald Trump of using government agencies to target political opponents and those closest to him.
Speaking in a video address, Newsom said federal agents have recently contacted family members, friends and former employees while seeking records connected to him and his associates. He argued the effort is politically motivated and tied to his outspoken criticism of Trump.
“In recent days, federal agents have knocked on the doors of family, friends and former employees, not because they found a crime, but because they’re simply trying to find one,” Newsom said.
The remarks mark a sharp escalation in the feud between the Democratic governor and the Republican president. Newsom contends that federal authorities are pursuing people in his orbit despite a lack of evidence of wrongdoing, while Trump and his allies have rejected accusations that investigations are politically driven.
Newsom said investigators could review any records they wished because “we have nothing to hide.” He added, “Donald Trump picked the wrong target.”
The governor reserved some of his strongest criticism for what he described as efforts to involve his wife in the probe. Calling her a dedicated public servant, Newsom said she had “done nothing wrong other than having the temerity to advocate for what she believes in.”
In an emotional moment, Newsom addressed his wife directly.
“I love you, and I’m sorry he’s doing this,” he said. “You have not earned a single one of the indignities that he’s trying to inflict on you and our children.”
Newsom also accused Trump of profiting from the presidency and using the Justice Department to pursue political rivals. He claimed the administration has targeted a growing list of critics and said he was prepared to join them.
“One by one, anyone who has challenged Donald Trump has ended up on his hit list,” Newsom said.
The governor concluded by vowing to continue speaking out against the president and rejecting any effort to silence him.
“Come after me,” said Newsom. “I’m not going anywhere, and the country is watching.”
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Bo Tefu contributed to this report
