This was very surprising to see.
California Governor Gavin Newsom is facing renewed political scrutiny after a new national poll found that a notable share of Democratic voters support a federal investigation involving the governor and his wife, Jennifer Siebel Newsom. The findings come as Newsom continues to weigh a possible run for the White House in 2028 and remains one of President Donald Trump’s most prominent political rivals.
The survey, conducted by Daily Mail and JL Partners, found that 27% of Democratic voters support the federal investigation. Of those respondents, 13% said they strongly support the probe, while 14% said they somewhat support it, suggesting that support for the investigation extends beyond Republican voters.
The results also indicate broader public interest in the case. Among the 1,059 registered voters surveyed, 43% of independent voters said they either strongly or somewhat support the investigation, while 36% said they oppose it. Republican voters showed the highest level of support, with more than 70% backing the federal probe.
Investigation Reportedly Examining Financial Records
The investigation became public last month after Newsom announced that he and his wife had become the subjects of a federal inquiry conducted by the U.S. Department of Justice.
According to reports, the investigation involves both the FBI and the IRS and is examining Jennifer Siebel Newsom’s finances as well as the couple’s tax records.
Federal agents have reportedly interviewed numerous friends, relatives, and associates connected to the Newsoms. Reports indicate the investigation has been underway since at least 2025.
The inquiry is separate from another federal case involving Dana Williamson, a former chief of staff and longtime political adviser within Newsom’s inner circle. Williamson previously pleaded guilty to federal fraud and tax-related charges. Public reporting has not accused Governor Newsom of wrongdoing in that separate case.
Democratic Leaders Rally Behind Newsom
When reports of the investigation first surfaced, several prominent Democrats publicly defended the California governor.
Among those expressing support were Senator Adam Schiff and former Vice President Kamala Harris, who criticized what they described as political attacks against Newsom.
Despite those endorsements from party leaders, the latest polling suggests Democratic voters are more divided over the investigation than many political observers expected.
Newsom Continues To Eye 2028 Presidential Race
The poll arrives as speculation continues to grow over Newsom’s political future.
The California governor has publicly acknowledged that he is considering a campaign for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2028 after completing his second and final term in office.
When Democratic voters participating in the Daily Mail/JL Partners survey were asked whom they would support for the party’s 2028 presidential nomination, Kamala Harris led the field, while Newsom finished second with 15% support. Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg followed with 11%.
Although the next presidential election remains years away, the investigation has added another layer of political attention as potential Democratic candidates begin positioning themselves for the future.
Newsom Says Investigation Is Politically Motivated
Newsom has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing and argues the federal investigation is politically motivated.
The governor has accused President Trump of directing the Justice Department to investigate him in an effort to damage his future presidential prospects.
Newsom has described the investigation as a politically driven “fishing expedition” and has said that neither he nor his wife has “anything to hide.” He has also argued that investigators are targeting his wife as a way of putting pressure on him because of his possible presidential ambitions.
Justice Department Pushes Back
Earlier this month, Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche rejected Newsom’s accusations that the Justice Department is targeting him for political reasons.
While declining to comment on any potential ongoing investigation, Blanche said Newsom’s public claims were “not grounded in fact” and stated that the governor would have to answer for his own remarks.
Blanche also declined to confirm or deny whether any investigation exists, emphasizing that public allegations alone do not establish the facts.
Poll Highlights Political Challenges Ahead
While no conclusions have been announced regarding the reported federal investigation, the latest survey suggests the issue is becoming a political challenge for Newsom as he considers his next move on the national stage.
With support for the investigation extending beyond Republican voters and drawing backing from a portion of Democrats and a significant share of independents, the issue is likely to remain a closely watched political story.
As Newsom continues to weigh a possible 2028 presidential campaign, the outcome of the reported investigation—and public opinion surrounding it—could play an important role in shaping the political conversation in the months and years ahead.