FBI Mole Alexis Podesta: The Shadowy Power Broker Behind Newsom's Corruption

Alexis Podesta has infiltrated the depths of California politics, now emerging as a pivotal informant for the FBI after wearing a wire to aid in the takedown of Dana Williamson, former chief of staff to Governor Gavin Newsom.

Podesta, a political insider whose influence has been felt but rarely seen, has spent years maneuvering through the Democratic ranks before transitioning into lobbying. She founded the Podesta Company in 2020, a lobbying and government affairs firm based in Sacramento.

Her political career includes serving as secretary of the California Business, Consumer Services and Housing Agency from 2017 to 2020 under then-Governor Jerry Brown. Before that, she held multiple roles in Brown's office, including director of external affairs and chief of protocol.

Podesta's experience extends to major corporations like PG&E and the Walt Disney Company, along with a role as director of scheduling for the late U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein.

In 2020, Newsom appointed her to the board of the State Compensation Insurance Fund, where she earns nearly $61,000 annually from taxpayers. This appointment raises eyebrows as she becomes a central figure in a federal corruption investigation surrounding Newsom.

Newsom's office has remained tight-lipped about Podesta's continued position on the board despite her status as an FBI informant, labeling it a personnel matter.

Podesta is identified as "Co-Conspirator 2" in Williamson's indictment. Allegations suggest she took control of former Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra's dormant campaign account after Williamson joined Newsom's administration.

Prosecutors claim this account funneled approximately $225,000 through fraudulent consulting payments that ultimately benefited Sean McCluskie, Becerra's former chief of staff. Despite these serious allegations, Podesta has not faced any criminal charges.

Her attorney, Bill Portanova, confirmed her identity as the unnamed co-conspirator in court documents, stating she began cooperating with federal investigators after discovering misconduct by others.

Beyond her government roles, Podesta has served on the board of cannabis company Body and Mind Inc., advised luxury vacation-home startup Pacaso, and participated in Chief, an executive networking organization.

Now, she adds FBI wiretaps to her growing list of skills.