Newsom’s Past Scandal Resurfaces Amid Talk of 2028 Presidential Run
As speculation grows over whether California Governor Gavin Newsom could pursue a presidential bid in 2028, attention has once again turned to one of the most controversial episodes of his early political career.
The 2007 Scandal
Back in 2007, during his time as mayor of San Francisco, Newsom admitted to having an affair with Ruby Rippey Gibney, the wife of his close friend and campaign manager Alex Tourk.
The revelation shocked the Bay Area political establishment, strained personal and professional relationships, and nearly derailed his career.
Newsom addressed the controversy publicly, delivering a televised apology:
“I want to make it clear that everything you’ve heard and read is true. 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 also extended his apology to San Francisco residents, acknowledging that he had let down the people who expected integrity from their mayor.
Fallout and Political Impact
The immediate fallout was significant. Tourk resigned as Newsom’s chief of staff, and the incident became a dominant news story, raising questions about trust, judgment, and personal responsibility in public office.
Opponents seized on the affair as evidence of flawed character, and the controversy was widely covered in the media at the time.
Despite the setback, Newsom managed to rebuild his political career.
He went on to become Lieutenant Governor of California, and later, Governor of the state, securing a national profile as a high-profile Democrat.
The #MeToo Perspective
In more recent years, the #MeToo movement brought renewed scrutiny to past incidents involving power dynamics in the workplace.
Since Gibney was a subordinate at City Hall, some critics have questioned whether the relationship could be considered inappropriate in today’s context.
Remember When Gavin Newsom SLEPT With His Friend’s Wife? pic.twitter.com/oiTEAQSf15
— Daily Caller (@DailyCaller) August 25, 2025
However, Gibney herself publicly defended Newsom, stating on social media that while she supports the #MeToo movement, she did not view her own situation as falling within that category.
She emphasized that she accepted personal responsibility for the relationship.
Looking Toward 2028
Now, with Newsom widely regarded as a potential Democratic contender in 2028, the scandal has resurfaced in political conversations.
For supporters, his long career since the controversy shows resilience and the ability to move forward. For critics, however, the affair remains a lingering blemish that could complicate any national campaign.
Newsom’s political strengths—his communication skills, fundraising ability, and national visibility—make him a notable figure in Democratic politics.
Yet if he decides to pursue the presidency, he may face renewed challenges in balancing his achievements as governor with reminders of his past.