California Governor Gavin Newsom attended the grand opening of the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago on June 18, 2026. During the event, he expressed emotional sentiments, stating he "literally started tearing up" while touring the library. Newsom, accompanied by his wife, Jennifer Siebel Newsom, praised the center and noted a collective sense of pride that he felt had been missing due to political divisiveness. He criticized individuals in leadership positions, implying a reference to former President Donald Trump, and highlighted the significance of the event's speakers, including former First Lady Michelle Obama, who contrasted Barack Obama's presidency with Trump's behavior.
In response to questions about a Department of Justice investigation concerning potential tax-related issues involving his wife, Siebel Newsom deflected, focusing instead on the inspiration from the event. Governor Newsom later addressed the investigation, stating that political retribution is not typical in the U.S. He confirmed that he and his wife are subjects of a DOJ investigation led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California, which is separate from a related investigation involving his former chief of staff. The opening ceremony was attended by several former presidents and notable figures, with the center scheduled to open to the public on Juneteenth.