California Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom is furious that the U.S. Department of Justice is reportedly investigating him and his wife, accusing President Donald Trump of launching a politically motivated “hit list” against potential opponents.

Newsom claimed on X that federal agents have been contacting friends, family members, and former staff while digging through years of records in search of a crime. He argued the investigation is retaliation for his criticism of Trump and his 2028 presidential ambitions. In a video statement, Newsom said about Trump, “He’s coming after me because I am considering running for President.”

There’s just one awkward detail.

Reports indicate at least part of the federal scrutiny traces back to investigations that originated in California and involve Newsom’s former chief of staff, Dana Williamson, who previously pleaded guilty to fraud charges. Other inquiries reportedly involve financial and tax matters connected to people in Newsom’s orbit including his wife.

So while Newsom is busy portraying himself as the latest victim of Trump’s political revenge tour, critics note that blaming Washington becomes a little harder when some of the breadcrumbs reportedly came from California in the first place.

Nothing says “partisan witch hunt” quite like an investigation that started in your own backyard.