Governor Gavin Newsom has dismissed a growing federal investigation into his administration, claiming it is politically motivated retribution for his past criticisms of President Trump. This follows reports that subpoenas were issued early September for records from the California State Protocol Foundation, the nonprofit responsible for funding his travel, which is largely backed by corporate donations.
The investigation has intensified since accusations surfaced about a politically charged inquiry initiated by the Justice Department involving Newsom and his wife, Jennifer Siebel Newsom. He previously described federal agents as aggressively seeking information to find wrongdoing.
Newsom’s spokesperson criticized the investigation as a “baseless MAGA conspiracy theory,” expressing concern for innocent associates and family being unfairly targeted.
The subpoenas, signed by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael D. Anderson, request communications from key figures associated with the foundation, including its head, Steve Kawa, and Rebecca Prowda, the wife of San Francisco’s mayor. While the foundation aims to minimize taxpayer costs related to the governor’s travel, scrutiny over its funding sources, which include large corporations, continues.
The Protocol Foundation, initiated during Arnold Schwarzenegger’s tenure, covers various travel expenses for Newsom, including international trips and significant events, drawing attention to the potential implications of its funding and operational structure.
