California Governor Gavin Newsom and his wife, Jennifer Siebel Newsom, have engaged the services of Abbe Lowell, a prominent defense attorney previously associated with Hunter Biden, as federal investigations examine financial and nonprofit matters related to the first partner. This decision follows scrutiny of Newsom's former chief of staff, who is involved in a separate federal fraud case. Newsom has characterized the investigations as a politically motivated 'fishing expedition' targeting him due to his opposition to former President Donald Trump.
In a news conference, Newsom confirmed the hiring of Lowell, who has represented various high-profile clients, including figures who have had conflicts with the Trump administration. Reports indicate that at least two criminal investigations involving Newsom's family and associates are being conducted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California, originating from whistleblower tips.
One investigation reportedly focuses on tax-related issues involving Jennifer Siebel Newsom and her nonprofit work, while another concerns Dana Williamson, a former chief of staff who has pleaded guilty in a related fraud case. The Los Angeles Times has reported that Siebel Newsom's nonprofits and a for-profit production company are under federal scrutiny. The Justice Department and FBI have not publicly commented on these investigations.
The Representation Project, a nonprofit that has compensated Siebel Newsom over $1.9 million, and the California Partners Project, which has received nearly $5.1 million in donations at the governor's request, are among the organizations involved. Newsom and his wife assert that the investigations are retaliatory actions linked to their criticisms of Trump. Newsom has indicated that he expects to be contacted by federal investigators regarding these matters.