Acting AG Todd Blanche Responds to Governor Newsom's Claims of Political Targeting

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche on July 1 stated that California Governor Gavin Newsom's claims regarding political targeting by the Justice Department are not supported by facts. Newsom had previously alleged that the Justice Department is investigating him and his wife, Jennifer Siebel Newsom, under directives from former President Donald Trump. Blanche did not provide details on any ongoing investigations but dismissed Newsom's assertions during a news conference, stating, "I'm not sure his words are in any way grounded in fact." Newsom has characterized the investigation as a politically motivated effort to undermine his potential presidential campaign, claiming that Trump is targeting him due to his criticisms of the former president. Blanche reiterated that Newsom is free to express his views, but it does not make them true. Reports indicate that the investigation has been ongoing since 2025 and is based on whistleblower complaints regarding the personal finances of Newsom and his wife. The U.S. Attorney's Office in Sacramento is handling the matter, and while there are confirmed investigations involving Jennifer Siebel Newsom, there is no known federal investigation directly targeting Governor Newsom himself. The Justice Department has not publicly confirmed any investigation related to either individual.