California Governor Pardons Convicted Attempted Murderer

Newsom's clemency move could allow the felon to remain in the U.S., drawing sharp criticism from federal immigration authorities.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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California Governor Gavin Newsom has granted a pardon to Somboon Phaymany, a man convicted in 1997 of attempted murder and other felony charges. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has criticized the decision, saying it could allow Phaymany to reopen immigration proceedings and remain in the country despite a prior order of removal.

Why it matters

The pardon has reignited tensions between California and federal immigration authorities over the state's sanctuary policies. DHS officials argue the move puts American communities at risk by protecting a convicted felon from deportation.

The details

Phaymany, who was 19 at the time of his crimes, was sentenced to 14 years to life in prison for attempted murder, assault with a semi-automatic firearm, assault with a firearm, and conspiracy to commit assault with a firearm. In December 2025, Newsom granted him executive clemency, citing evidence that Phaymany had transformed his life. However, DHS says the pardon allows Phaymany to reopen immigration proceedings and potentially avoid removal from the U.S.

  • Phaymany was convicted of the felony charges in 1997.
  • A judge issued a final order of removal for Phaymany in 2019.
  • Newsom granted Phaymany a pardon in December 2025.

The players

Gavin Newsom

The Governor of California who granted the pardon to Somboon Phaymany.

Somboon Phaymany

A man convicted in 1997 of attempted murder and other felony charges, who was granted a pardon by Governor Newsom in 2025.

Tricia McLaughlin

The Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security who criticized Newsom's pardon decision.

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What they’re saying

“Governor Newsom pardoning an illegal alien convicted of attempted murder, so he can remain in our country is absolute INSANITY. These are the criminal illegal aliens he and his sanctuary politicians are protecting.”

— Tricia McLaughlin, DHS Assistant Secretary

What’s next

The judge in Phaymany's immigration case will decide whether the pardon allows him to reopen proceedings and potentially avoid deportation.

The takeaway

This pardon highlights the ongoing tensions between California's sanctuary policies and federal immigration enforcement efforts, with both sides accusing the other of prioritizing politics over public safety.