As speculation grows over whether California Governor Gavin Newsom might pursue a presidential run in 2028, one of his most controversial past scandals is resurfacing in the spotlight.
In 2007, while serving as mayor of San Francisco, Newsom acknowledged an affair with Ruby Rippey Gibney, the wife of his close friend and campaign manager, Alex Tourk. The disclosure shocked the Bay Area political establishment, strained personal and professional relationships, and threatened to derail his career at the time.
At the time, Newsom made a televised admission and apology.
“I want to make it clear that everything you’ve heard and read is true,” he said. “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.”
