California Governor Gavin Newsom accused President Donald Trump of utilizing the Justice Department to intimidate political adversaries. Newsom's comments were made in response to an investigation that he claims targets him and his wife, Jennifer Siebel Newsom. On June 16, 2026, the Newsom Press Office stated that the investigation appears to be aimed at sending a political message rather than uncovering any criminal activity, referencing legal analyst Melissa Murray's remarks. Newsom has been a vocal critic of Trump, particularly regarding issues such as immigration policy and disaster relief. He has filed a Freedom of Information Act request for records related to the investigation, seeking to understand its authorization and execution. The Justice Department has not publicly confirmed the existence of the investigation.
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Gavin Newsom Accuses Trump of Using DOJ for Political Retaliation
Governor Gavin Newsom has accused President Donald Trump of using the Justice Department to intimidate political opponents, claiming that an investigation into him and his wife is politically motivated. Newsom's office has filed a Freedom of Information Act request for records related to the investigation, which the Justice Department has not confirmed.
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Gavin Newsom
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Jennifer Siebel Newsom
Melissa Murray
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Newsom camp says investigation is not about finding a crime, but sending a message
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Gavin Newsom Accuses Trump of Using DOJ for Political Retaliation