Gavin Newsom

Newsom April 2024 (cropped)

Gavin Newsom is an American politician and businessman who has served as the 40th Governor of California since January 7, 2019. A member of the Democratic Party, Newsom previously served as the 49th Lieutenant Governor of California from 2011 to 2019 and as the 42nd Mayor of San Francisco from 2004 to 2011.

Early Life and Education

Gavin Christopher Newsom was born on October 10, 1967, in San Francisco, California. He is the son of Tessa Thomas (née Menzies) and William Alfred Newsom III, a state appeals court judge and attorney for Getty Oil. Newsom attended Redwood High School and graduated from Santa Clara University with a Bachelor of Science in political science.

Business Career

Before entering politics, Newsom embarked on a successful business career. In 1991, with financial assistance from Gordon Getty, a family friend, Newsom founded PlumpJack Associates L.P., which started with the PlumpJack Winery in Napa Valley and grew to encompass a number of restaurants and hotels. Newsom's business ventures have contributed significantly to his public profile and financial portfolio.

Political Career

Mayor of San Francisco

Newsom's political career began when he was appointed to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors in 1997 by then-Mayor Willie Brown. In 2003, he was elected Mayor of San Francisco, becoming the city's youngest mayor in over a century. During his tenure, Newsom gained national attention by directing the San Francisco city–county clerk to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples in 2004, challenging California's laws on marriage. His mayoralty also focused on health care, homelessness, and environmental initiatives.

Lieutenant Governor of California

In 2010, Newsom was elected Lieutenant Governor of California, a position he held for two terms. As lieutenant governor, he chaired the State Lands Commission and the California Ocean Protection Council, among other roles. He was a vocal advocate for environmental protection, education, and economic development.

Governor of California

Newsom was elected Governor of California in 2018, defeating Republican businessman John H. Cox in the general election. As governor, Newsom has focused on issues such as the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, health care, and immigration. He has been a proponent of progressive policies, including efforts to combat climate change, expand health care coverage, and increase funding for education. In 2021, Newsom faced a recall election, which he successfully defeated, allowing him to continue his term as governor.

Personal Life

Gavin Newsom has been married to Jennifer Siebel Newsom, a documentary filmmaker and actress, since 2008. The couple has four children. Newsom was previously married to Kimberly Guilfoyle, a television news personality and advisor to former President Donald Trump.

Controversies and Public Perception

Throughout his career, Newsom has been a polarizing figure, admired by supporters for his progressive policies and leadership, while criticized by opponents for his handling of issues such as homelessness, taxes, and the state's economy. His stance on same-sex marriage and aggressive measures during the COVID-19 pandemic have particularly highlighted the divisive nature of his political and governance style.

Legacy and Future

Gavin Newsom's legacy as a politician is still being shaped by his ongoing tenure as Governor of California. His ambitious policy initiatives and leadership style have positioned him as a prominent figure in the Democratic Party and a potential future candidate for higher office.