Reports suggest a strained relationship exists between California Governor Gavin Newsom and his wife, Jennifer Siebel Newsom, stemming from friction with the governor's aide, Lindsey Cobia.
Sources described the tension as "the worst kept secret in California politics," according to the Daily Mail. Comparisons have been drawn between Cobia and Natalie Harp, a former aide to Donald Trump known for her close proximity to the former president. Harp, 35, served as Trump's executive assistant and was often seen with him both in the White House and while traveling.
Cobia, 35, has been a key figure in Newsom's political career, serving as his Deputy Campaign Manager before becoming Deputy Chief of Staff. Described by a former colleague as Newsom's "strategic partner involved in all manners of political decisions," Cobia is said to have made herself "irreplaceable."
The Daily Mail report details an incident where Siebel Newsom allegedly "flipped out" after an event in March. This flareup reportedly occurred after Newsom took a detour on his book tour to attend Jesse Jackson’s funeral in Chicago, bringing Cobia along. One longtime confidant of Siebel Newsom told the Daily Mail, "Jen told people she felt Lindsey was obsessed with her husband."
Cobia's husband, Michael Redding, holds a position as the governor's Deputy Cabinet Secretary for Public Safety. The reports of internal friction emerge amidst Newsom's prominent role in national Democratic politics, with the governor frequently mentioned as a potential presidential candidate.