Gavin Newsom’s 2007 Scandal Resurfaces Amid 2028 Presidential Run Speculation

As speculation intensifies regarding California Governor Gavin Newsom’s potential candidacy for the U.S. presidency in 2028, a controversial chapter from his past has re-emerged, drawing renewed attention from political analysts, media, and the public. The scandal, which unfolded in 2007 during Newsom’s tenure as mayor of San Francisco, involved an extramarital affair that rocked the Bay Area’s political landscape and tested Newsom’s resilience as a public figure.

The 2007 Scandal

In 2007, Gavin Newsom, then the charismatic and ambitious mayor of San Francisco, publicly admitted to having an affair with Ruby Rippey Gibney, who was married to his close friend and campaign manager, Alex Tourk. The revelation sent shockwaves through San Francisco’s tightly knit political community, as Tourk was not only a trusted confidant but also a key figure in Newsom’s successful mayoral campaign. The affair, which reportedly occurred in 2005, came to light when Tourk confronted Newsom, leading to the latter’s decision to address the issue publicly.

In a televised press conference, Newsom took full responsibility for his actions, acknowledging the pain he had caused. “I want to make it clear that everything you’ve heard and read is true,” he stated candidly. “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.” The apology was seen as an attempt to mitigate the damage to his reputation, but it did little to quell the immediate fallout. The scandal strained personal and professional relationships, with Tourk resigning from his role and distancing himself from Newsom. Local media outlets heavily covered the story, and some political observers questioned whether Newsom’s career could recover from such a public betrayal.

At the time, Newsom was already a rising star in Democratic politics, known for his progressive policies, including his bold decision to allow same-sex marriages in San Francisco in 2004, which earned him national attention. However, the affair threatened to overshadow his accomplishments, casting doubt on his judgment and integrity. Critics argued that the scandal revealed a lack of personal discipline, while supporters contended that his willingness to own up to the mistake demonstrated accountability.