Jennifer Siebel Newsom Dodges Question On Federal Probe During Obama Library Event

California First Lady Jennifer Siebel Newsom sidestepped questions Thursday about a federal investigation involving her and Gov. Gavin Newsom while attending the opening of former President Barack Obama’s Presidential Library in Chicago.

When asked about the probe, Siebel Newsom quickly redirected the conversation toward the event and praised the former president.

“I’m just so grateful for this inspiration and leadership,” she said, appearing to refer to Obama.

“We need more of this!” she added before looking away from the reporter.

Gov. Gavin Newsom then stepped in to answer the question himself, repeating allegations he made earlier this week that the investigation is politically motivated.

“This is stuff that happens in other countries. That’s all I’ll say. Happens in other countries,” Newsom said.

“He wants to go after me? Go after me,” the governor added before ending the interview.

The exchange comes days after Newsom publicly disclosed that he, his wife and individuals connected to them are the subjects of federal investigations. The governor has accused President Trump of weaponizing the justice system against political opponents.

Siebel Newsom echoed those accusations earlier this week.

“There are clearly no boundaries to what Donald Trump will do to get his way or to challenge those who get in his way,” she said in a statement.

Sources familiar with the matter have indicated that one aspect of the investigation centers on nonprofit projects linked to Siebel Newsom. One of those nonprofits has previously received millions of dollars in donations from special interests and entities that conduct business with the State of California.

Newsom has also claimed that federal investigators have contacted family members, friends and former employees as part of the inquiry.

Neither the governor’s office nor federal authorities have publicly disclosed additional details about the nature or scope of the investigation.