Conservative columnist warns Trump's investigation into Newsom will inevitably backfire
FILE PHOTO: California Governor Gavin Newsom, along with local congressional representatives, state officials and supporters, speaks as he announces the redrawing of California's congressional maps, calling on voters to approve a ballot measure, in response to a similar move in Texas being supported by U.S. President Donald Trump, in Los Angeles, California, U.S., August 14, 2025. REUTERS/Mike Blake/File Photo
CNN conservative columnist S.E. Cupp argued President Donald Trump's investigation into California's Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom and his wife, Jennifer Siebel Newsom, could inadvertently boost Newsom's political standing and damage the Republican party ahead of the 2028 elections.
Cupp characterized the probe as beneficial to Newsom and wrote, "This is exactly what Gavin Newsom wants."
"He wants to be Trump's main foil. That is good for business. And what Trump doesn't seem to realize yet is it's bad for Trump."
Reporting by Semafor White House correspondent Shelby Talcott revealed multiple investigations originate from Sacramento and whistleblowers, not the main Department of Justice. These specifically target Newsom's wife, Siebel Newsom, and his Chief of Staff.
Cupp cited Trump's pattern of inadvertently elevating Democratic rivals through attacks, noting James Talarico and Mark Kelly both benefited politically after being targeted by Trump.
"So he [Trump] has a habit of making these guys, turning them into resistance heroes," Cupp argued.
"Gavin Newsom has been reaping the benefits of that, and I'm sure is looking forward to this fight."
