Dana Williamson, a prominent California political strategist with close ties to Governor Gavin Newsom and gubernatorial candidate Xavier Becerra, pleaded guilty on Thursday to federal corruption and tax charges. The plea is expected to intensify attacks in the already contentious race for governor.
Details of the Guilty Plea
Federal prosecutors alleged that Williamson conspired to steal $225,000 from a dormant campaign account belonging to Becerra, who was not named in the plea agreement. The funds were diverted to Sean McCluskie, Becerra's chief of staff, and disguised as payments to McCluskie's spouse for work that was never performed. McCluskie had reportedly taken a pay cut to join Becerra when he became U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services in 2021. McCluskie accepted a plea deal in December 2025.
Political Fallout
Becerra has consistently denied any knowledge of the scheme, but his opponents have seized on the scandal. Billionaire Tom Steyer, a top rival in the governor's race, stated, "We know that Xavier Becerra likely broke state law, and now he's at the center of an ongoing criminal investigation. Democrats cannot afford to wake up on June 3 and discover we've got a criminal on our hands." Former Congresswoman Katie Porter also criticized Becerra, calling him "too big of a risk" for voters due to his proximity to the scandal.
In response, Becerra wrote on X, "My opponents have spent millions spreading lies to purposefully mislead voters. Today confirms what I have said from day one: I did nothing wrong. Case closed." Court documents indicate that Williamson and McCluskie concealed the plan from Becerra.
Williamson's Role and Additional Charges
Williamson wielded considerable influence in Sacramento politics, having served as chief of staff to Governor Newsom and cabinet secretary under former Governor Jerry Brown. In addition to the fraud conspiracy, she pleaded guilty to making false statements about the scheme and filing false tax returns. Law enforcement officials revealed that she claimed approximately $1.7 million in personal expenses as business deductions.
Sentencing
Williamson faces up to 38 years in prison. Her sentencing hearing is scheduled for July.
