As the 2028 presidential race looms on the horizon, California Governor Gavin Newsom’s name is frequently mentioned as a potential contender.
Known for his polished political persona, charismatic public speaking, and progressive achievements as the leader of the nation's most populous state, Newsom has built a reputation as a formidable political force.
However, as his presidential ambitions gain momentum, one of his most infamous scandals from the past is making a resurgence in the media.
In 2007, while serving as mayor of San Francisco, Newsom found himself embroiled in a scandal that would nearly destroy his career. Newsom admitted to having an affair with Ruby Rippey Gibney, the wife of his close friend and campaign manager, Alex Tourk.
This revelation shocked the Bay Area political world and ignited a media frenzy. The affair not only damaged personal relationships but also called into question Newsom’s character and judgment.
At the time, Newsom was a rising star in California politics. Having become mayor in 2004 at the age of 36, he had quickly gained recognition for his leadership, particularly in his advocacy for same-sex marriage rights.
However, the scandal shattered the image he had carefully crafted as a responsible, trustworthy public figure. The fallout was swift and intense. Tourk, who had been a key figure in Newsom’s political rise, resigned from his post as the mayor’s chief of staff.
The affair dominated the news cycle, with local and national outlets giving it constant coverage. Political opponents seized on the controversy to question Newsom’s fitness for office, and late-night comedians made him a target for jokes.
In a public statement, Newsom admitted to the affair and offered a sincere apology. “I want to make it clear that everything you’ve heard and read is true,” Newsom said, visibly emotional.
“I am deeply sorry about that. I’ve hurt someone I care deeply about, Alex Tourk and his friends and family. That is something I have to live with.” He went on to apologize to the people of San Francisco, acknowledging that his actions had damaged the public trust and promising to work hard to restore that trust in the coming months. Despite this apology, the damage had already been done.
While Newsom’s political career survived the scandal, the affair left a stain on his record that has lingered over the years. Despite his eventual success in becoming California’s governor in 2019, the affair remains an enduring part of Newsom’s story.
As speculation grows about his potential run for the White House in 2028, questions about his past and the impact of the scandal on his future prospects have resurfaced.
In the years since the scandal, the political discourse surrounding issues of personal conduct and workplace dynamics has evolved significantly, particularly with the rise of the #MeToo movement.
As discussions of workplace misconduct and the abuse of power have become central to political debates, questions have emerged about whether Newsom’s relationship with a subordinate could be considered a form of workplace misconduct.
Critics argue that, given Newsom’s position of power, the affair could be seen as a betrayal of professional boundaries, raising concerns about his judgment and integrity.
However, Gibney herself has defended Newsom in the years following the scandal. In a Facebook post, she acknowledged that she was a subordinate but emphasized that the responsibility for the affair lay with her as well.
“To be clear, I fully support the Me Too movement,” Gibney wrote. “In this particular instance, however, I am doubtful that it applies.” She expressed her belief that the relationship had been mutual and consensual, pointing out that both she and Newsom had made choices that led to the affair.
By doing so, she attempted to shield Newsom from the harsher allegations that had surfaced at the time.
Despite this defense, the controversy surrounding Newsom’s past continues to haunt him. As he prepares for the possibility of a 2028 presidential run, Newsom will have to confront this scandal head-on.
The national stage is a far more unforgiving environment than the one he faced as mayor of San Francisco. While California voters may have forgiven Newsom for his past mistakes, a presidential campaign would thrust his personal history into the spotlight once again.
The timing of the renewed focus on the scandal could not be more significant. As Newsom’s profile continues to rise on the national stage, particularly among progressive Democrats, his record as governor is often highlighted as evidence of his political capabilities.
Newsom has been lauded for his leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, his aggressive climate change policies, and his efforts to address homelessness in California. His progressive stance on issues such as healthcare, climate action, and gun control has earned him praise from many in the Democratic Party.
However, Newsom’s opponents are likely to seize upon his past as a point of attack, questioning his integrity and trustworthiness. For those who view the affair as a sign of poor judgment, the idea of him becoming the leader of the free world may seem unthinkable.
The scandal will be revisited frequently, especially if Newsom becomes a serious contender in the race. While Newsom’s charm and political acumen may help him weather these attacks, the personal nature of the scandal means that it will be difficult to fully escape.
The legacy of the affair also serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by public figures who have lived their lives in the spotlight. For many, Newsom’s scandal may seem like a minor lapse in judgment from an otherwise capable leader.
However, for others, it represents a deeper issue about character and integrity. In a time when political leaders are held to higher standards than ever before, Newsom’s past may continue to shape how voters view him, both in California and nationally.
In addition to the scandal, Newsom must also navigate the shifting political dynamics in the United States. While he enjoys strong support among progressives, the broader electorate may be less forgiving.
The country’s political landscape has evolved since Newsom’s time as mayor of San Francisco, and the issues that once defined his career may not be as relevant to voters in 2028.
For example, the focus on climate change, healthcare, and social justice that defined Newsom’s tenure in California may resonate less with moderate and independent voters, who are likely to have different priorities in the coming years.
As Newsom weighs the possibility of running for president, he will need to consider how to balance his progressive values with the broader appeal necessary to win a national election.
The scandal may complicate that process, but it also presents an opportunity for Newsom to demonstrate growth and maturity as a leader. If he can effectively address his past while continuing to push forward with a compelling vision for the future, he may be able to overcome the stigma associated with the affair.
For now, Newsom’s political future remains uncertain. While he has not yet officially announced his candidacy for the 2028 election, the speculation surrounding his potential run continues to build.
As he navigates the complexities of his past and the challenges of the future, Newsom will need to confront his past mistakes head-on, all while proving to voters that he is the right choice to lead the nation.
In a political landscape where personal character is as important as policy, the resolution of Newsom’s scandal will be a key factor in determining whether he can rise to the occasion and secure a place in the presidential race.
Remember When Gavin Newsom SLEPT With His Friend's Wife? pic.twitter.com/oiTEAQSf15
— Daily Caller (@DailyCaller) August 25, 2025
