Sacramento’s political swamp just got murkier with a lobbyist’s guilty plea that’s peeling back the curtain on alleged Democratic shenanigans.
In a stunning turn of events, Greg Campbell, a well-connected Sacramento lobbyist and former legislative aide, pleaded guilty to fraud and conspiracy charges on Thursday, December 4, 2025, as part of a federal investigation into corruption among California’s Democratic elite, the New York Post reported.
This case isn’t just about Campbell—it ropes in heavy hitters like Dana Williamson, once chief of staff to Gov. Gavin Newsom, and Sean McCluskie, a former top aide to Xavier Becerra, in a scheme that’s got more twists than a coastal highway.
Campbell admitted to one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and another for conspiracy to commit bank and wire fraud, striking a plea deal that prosecutors say could lighten his sentence, per the LA Times.
Meanwhile, the federal indictment paints a grim picture, accusing Campbell, Williamson, and McCluskie of siphoning $225,000 from Becerra’s old campaign funds to bankroll a phantom job for McCluskie’s spouse.
McCluskie already pleaded guilty to bank and wire fraud charges last month, while Williamson, facing a whopping 23 counts, including similar fraud charges, has dug in with a not-guilty plea.
Prosecutors aren’t holding back on Williamson, alleging she misused over $1.7 million in tax write-offs for personal splurges like a Chanel bag, luxury earrings, a private jet trip, and a nearly $170,000 birthday getaway to Mexico.
Adding fuel to the fire, Campbell allegedly helped Williamson fabricate contracts to dodge scrutiny over her company, Grace Public Affairs, during a probe into questionable PPP loan eligibility.
It’s the kind of fiscal acrobatics that makes one wonder if accountability is just a buzzword in Sacramento’s corridors of power.
Despite the charges, Williamson isn’t without allies—Steve Maviglio, a veteran of past Democratic administrations, has rallied a legal defense fund for her, scraping together nearly $9,000 from donors like Mark Krausse, a Newsom appointee with PG&E ties.
Both Newsom and Becerra, the latter now eyeing the governor’s mansion, have distanced themselves, claiming no knowledge of the alleged backroom dealings.
Newsom, fresh off a speech at the New York Times Dealbook Summit on December 3, 2025, in New York City, must be hoping this scandal doesn’t cast a shadow over his legacy.
Campbell’s attorney, Todd Pickles, offered a somber note outside the courthouse on December 4, 2025, saying, “Mr. Campbell will remain focused on his family and making positive contributions to the community.”
Pickles added, “Mr. Campbell is deeply grateful for the support from his family and friends during this difficult time.” While it’s a nice sentiment, one can’t help but question if community contributions can erase the stain of conspiring to defraud—actions speak louder than lawyerly soundbites.
