Top Newsom Aide Arrested in Federal Corruption Probe
A former senior aide to California Governor Gavin Newsom has been arrested and indicted on multiple federal corruption charges, sending shockwaves through the state's political establishment. Dana Williamson, who served as Newsom's chief of staff, faces 23 criminal counts including conspiracy to commit bank and wire fraud, subscribing to false tax returns, and making false statements to law enforcement.
The Charges and Alleged Scheme
Federal authorities allege that Williamson participated in a sophisticated scheme to steal $225,000 from a dormant campaign account belonging to former federal Health Secretary Xavier Becerra. The indictment claims she helped Sean McCluskie, a longtime Becerra aide, siphon funds to supplement his salary after he accepted a position as Becerra's chief of staff in Washington.
According to prosecutors, Williamson used her political consulting company to bill Becerra's campaign account for services that were never rendered. The money was allegedly funneled through lobbyist Greg Campbell's company before ultimately reaching McCluskie's wife. Williamson is also accused of falsifying business contracts related to Paycheck Protection Program loans her business received during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The most striking allegations involve Williamson's personal expenses, which she allegedly claimed as business deductions. Prosecutors say she filed fraudulent tax forms from 2021 to 2023 to claim more than $1 million in deductions for luxury items including handbags, jewellery, private jet travel, Mexican vacations, home HVAC system installation, and hundreds of thousands paid to relatives for non-existent jobs.
Political Fallout and Co-Conspirators
The scandal has particular significance as Becerra is now a candidate for California governor. He described the news as "a gut punch" but, like Governor Newsom, faces no allegations of wrongdoing in the indictment.
Newsom's office revealed that Williamson had been placed on leave in November 2024 after disclosing the criminal investigation to them, though this wasn't publicly announced at the time. Her departure and replacement were formally announced the following month.
Two other individuals have already reached plea agreements in connection with the case. McCluskie admitted to one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and wire fraud on October 30, while lobbyist Greg Campbell pleaded guilty to similar charges plus conspiracy to defraud the United States.
Legal Proceedings and Defence
Williamson entered a not guilty plea in federal court and was released on a $500,000 bond secured against her house. As conditions of her release, she must surrender her passport, refrain from alcohol or drug consumption, and avoid contact with co-conspirators.
Her attorney, McGregor Scott, claimed federal authorities under the Biden administration had asked Williamson to cooperate in a probe into Governor Newsom more than a year ago. "She told them she had no information to provide them, and then we wind up today with these charges," Scott stated. Newsom's office maintains the governor was unaware of any investigation involving him.
If convicted on all charges, Williamson could face up to 20 years in prison. The next court hearing is scheduled for December 11.
