Gavin Newsom’s criminal ex-chief of staff haunts him in DOJ investigations

As California Gov Newsom positions himself as a leading Dem contender for future POTUS runs, his former chief of staff Williamson,who served from late 2022 to early 2025,has pleaded guilty to multiple federal crimes.

These include conspiracy to tap a congressional campaign account, filing false tax returns, and lying to the FBI. This comes amid broader DOJ probes into Newsom and his wife finances, taxes, nonprofits, and staff dealings (including Activision Blizzard ties).

Newsom denies any wrongdoing, calls it political persecution, and distanced himself from Williamson,yet the scandals raise serious questions about his inner circle and judgment as a potential national leader.

"Williamson’s guilty plea — and a highly anticipated sentencing hearing next month — has cast a glaring spotlight on Newsom, who this week accused the Trump administration of weaponizing the Justice Department against him as he weighs a run for president in 2028".

https://nypost.com/2026/06/20/us-news/gavin-newsoms-criminal-ex-chief-of-staff-haunts-him-in-doj-investigations/

The story is based on a NYP report

How can the possible future king of the Dem party, Gov. Newsom escape the potential political / investigative fall out?

“Part of the answer is that Sacramento has a long history of tolerating corruption, thanks to one-party rule, the passive media, and a culture of mutual back-scratching”.

https://nypost.com/2026/06/20/opinion/the-gavin-newsom-probe-is-serious-and-he-knows-it/

Oh the irony.....Newsom has someone on his staff who is or might be a felon.......5555.....what next?.........A US president guilty of felonies, sexual assault, cheating a children's cancer charity, paying hookers not to sleep with them.....5555

The party ,the Gov , the California Dem establishment is on trial in the court of public opinion

Newsom brushes off DOJ probe, as Democrats worry it could hurt him in 2028

"While the probes are in their early stages, some Democrats are already wondering whether they could tarnish Newsom’s image even before he would enter the race, giving Republicans an opening to define him". 

https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/5929313-gavin-newsom-doj-challenges/