A Justice Department probe into the wife of Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom burst into public view Monday after Newsom — prominent critic of President Donald Trump and a potential 2028 White House contender — accused the administration of spearheading a politically motivated investigation into his inner circle.
CNN confirmed Monday that California’s first lady, Jennifer Siebel Newsom, is under investigation. However, a person familiar with the probe denied that it was launched by the department’s Trump-appointed leadership in DC.
Still, the conduct of the department in the investigation — and any charges it ultimately produces — will be closely scrutinized after Trump’s Justice Department has brought a series of prosecutions against the president’s foes. Trump’s pick to lead the Justice Department, acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, could face questions about it as well, as he advances in his Senate confirmation proceedings, which are expected to begin as soon as next month.
Here is what to know about the Newsom investigation.
Siebel Newsom, who founded a non-profit focused on gender equity in media, is being investigated for tax-related conduct, as are other people with connections to the governor, a person familiar with the investigation told CNN on Monday.
