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Newsom seeks political advantage in probe he says Trump ordered
Los Angeles Times • • nation
Key Points:
- California Governor Gavin Newsom announced a federal investigation into him and his wife, Jennifer Siebel Newsom, in a direct video, framing it as a politically motivated attack by former President Donald Trump.
- Newsom, seen as a potential 2028 presidential candidate, used the announcement to bolster his profile by positioning himself as a strong opponent of Trump and appealing to Democratic primary voters, especially women.
- The investigation reportedly involves probes linked to Newsom’s former chief of staff and tax matters related to Siebel Newsom, originating from whistleblower tips in Sacramento rather than Washington, D.C.
- Newsom’s team describes the inquiry as a fishing expedition targeting nonprofits connected to the couple, while critics warn that the probe could uncover more damaging information.
- While publicly challenging Trump carries political risks, experts note that in the current polarized climate, such confrontations may enhance Newsom’s standing among his base, similar to how legal challenges boosted Trump’s profile.
