California Governor’s Former Chief of Staff Takes Plea Deal in Corruption, Fraud Case

Dana Williamson pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy to commit bank, wire, and tax fraud.

Dana Williamson (C), a former top aide to California Gov. Gavin Newsom, leaves the courthouse in Sacramento, Calif., on Nov. 12, 2025. Sophie Austin/AP Photo

California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s former chief of staff pleaded guilty on May 14 in a federal public corruption case after taking a plea deal earlier this week.

Political consultant Dana Williamson, 53, of Carmichael, California, stands accused of funneling campaign funds from former Health Secretary Xavier Becerra to his aide.