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Ex-Governor's Aide Indicted, Receives $50K Amid Fraud Probe

3/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

Dana Williamson, former chief of staff to California Governor Gavin Newsom, received a $50,000 payout amid a federal fraud investigation.
She used $30,000 in unused vacation time to stay on the payroll until January 31, 2026, after her departure.
Williamson faces a 23-count indictment for allegedly stealing $225,000 from a political campaign.
California's liability for unused vacation and leave stands at $5.6 billion, with $453 million paid in 2025.

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Story summary

Dana Williamson, former chief of staff to California Governor Gavin Newsom, received a $50,000 payout amid a federal fraud investigation.
She used $30,000 in unused vacation time to stay on the payroll until January 31, 2026, after her departure.
Williamson faces a 23-count indictment for allegedly stealing $225,000 from a political campaign.
California's liability for unused vacation and leave stands at $5.6 billion, with $453 million paid in 2025.