Gavin Newsom is one of the most influential political figures in the United States, known for his progressive policies and unwavering dedication to social justice. As the 40th governor of California, he has played a pivotal role in addressing major issues like climate change, healthcare reform, and economic inequality. This article provides an in-depth biography of Gavin Newsom, including his early life, career, personal life, latest news, and detailed tables with verified information.
Early Life and Education
Gavin Christopher Newsom was born on October 10, 1967, in San Francisco, California. He was raised in an influential family with deep roots in California’s political and business landscape. His father, William Newsom, was a state appeals court judge and a close friend of the powerful Getty family. His mother, Tessa Thomas Menzies, worked as a bookkeeper and raised Gavin and his sister after their parents’ divorce when Gavin was young.
Newsom attended Redwood High School in Larkspur, California, where he struggled with dyslexia—a condition that made reading and writing difficult for him. Despite these challenges, he showed a keen interest in sports, particularly baseball and basketball. His perseverance helped him overcome academic difficulties, and he went on to attend Santa Clara University on a partial baseball scholarship.
At Santa Clara University, Newsom studied political science and graduated in 1989 with a Bachelor of Science degree. His experiences at the university helped shape his political views and passion for public service. During his college years, he also worked at various jobs, including as a real estate investor and wine merchant, which later influenced his entrepreneurial career.
Personal Life
Gavin Newsom’s personal life has been marked by both triumphs and controversies. He married Kimberly Guilfoyle, a former prosecutor and television personality, in 2001. The couple was often in the media spotlight due to their high-profile relationship. However, they divorced in 2006, citing the strain of their bi-coastal careers.
In 2008, Newsom married Jennifer Siebel, an actress, filmmaker, and advocate for gender equality. Together, they have four children: Montana, Hunter, Brooklynn, and Dutch. Jennifer’s work in promoting women’s rights and addressing gender bias has had a significant influence on Newsom’s own policies and initiatives.
Newsom has been open about his struggles with alcohol addiction, acknowledging that he sought treatment for his dependency. His willingness to discuss personal challenges has helped humanize his public image and connect with constituents facing similar struggles.
Family
Gavin Newsom comes from a family with strong political and business ties. His father, William Newsom, was not only a respected judge but also managed the Getty family’s financial interests. The Newsom and Getty families have maintained close relationships for decades, with the Gettys playing a pivotal role in Gavin’s early business ventures.
His maternal grandfather, Arthur L. Menzies, was a prominent San Francisco businessman. Additionally, his aunt, Barbara Newsom, was once married to Ron Pelosi, the brother-in-law of U.S. Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, further connecting him to influential political circles.
The Newsom family legacy of public service and business acumen has undoubtedly played a role in shaping Gavin’s career and political trajectory.
Detailed Bio Table
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Gavin Christopher Newsom |
| Date of Birth | October 10, 1967 |
| Birthplace | San Francisco, California, USA |
| Height | 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m) |
| Parents | William Newsom (Father), Tessa Menzies (Mother) |
| Spouse | Jennifer Siebel Newsom (m. 2008) |
| Children | 4 |
| Education | Santa Clara University (B.S. Political Science) |
| Net Worth (2025) | $20 million |
| Political Party | Democratic Party |
| Current Position | Governor of California (2019–Present) |
Career
Early Business Ventures
Before entering politics, Gavin Newsom established himself as a successful entrepreneur. In 1992, he founded PlumpJack Winery with financial backing from the Getty family. The business grew into a multimillion-dollar enterprise, encompassing a variety of hospitality ventures, including restaurants, hotels, and wine shops.
Newsom’s business success helped him build a strong network of influential contacts, which would later prove invaluable in his political career.
Political Career
San Francisco Board of Supervisors
Newsom’s political career began in 1996 when then-Mayor Willie Brown appointed him to the San Francisco Parking and Traffic Commission. A year later, Brown appointed him to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, making him one of the youngest members at the time. He won re-election in 1998, 2000, and 2002, gaining recognition for his moderate, business-friendly policies.
During his tenure on the Board of Supervisors, Newsom introduced the “Care Not Cash” initiative, which aimed to reform San Francisco’s welfare system by providing services and housing to the homeless instead of direct cash payments. The initiative was controversial but ultimately passed, solidifying Newsom’s reputation as a pragmatic reformer.
Mayor of San Francisco
In 2003, Gavin Newsom was elected the 42nd Mayor of San Francisco, becoming the city’s youngest mayor in over a century. His time as mayor was marked by several progressive policies, most notably his decision in 2004 to direct city officials to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples—despite the practice being illegal at the time. This bold move made national headlines and established Newsom as a champion of LGBTQ+ rights.
As mayor, Newsom also focused on issues such as homelessness, healthcare, and environmental sustainability. His “Healthy San Francisco” initiative provided access to healthcare for uninsured residents, while his environmental policies promoted renewable energy and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
Lieutenant Governor of California
After serving two terms as mayor, Newsom was elected Lieutenant Governor of California in 2010, serving under Governor Jerry Brown. During his two terms as lieutenant governor, Newsom focused on economic development, higher education, and environmental issues. He played a key role in promoting California’s clean energy policies and expanding access to higher education.
Governor of California
In 2018, Gavin Newsom was elected the 40th Governor of California, succeeding Jerry Brown. As governor, he has faced numerous challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, wildfires, and the state’s housing crisis. His administration has prioritized healthcare access, climate change, and economic recovery.
Newsom’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic received both praise and criticism. While he implemented some of the nation’s strictest lockdown measures, his own actions—such as attending a high-profile dinner at the French Laundry restaurant during the pandemic—sparked controversy and accusations of hypocrisy.
Despite facing a recall election in 2021, Newsom retained his position with a significant margin of support, signaling continued confidence in his leadership among California voters.
Here’s a detailed table of Gavin Newsom, the current Governor of California:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Gavin Christopher Newsom |
| Date of Birth | October 10, 1967 |
| Place of Birth | San Francisco, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Political Party | Democratic Party |
| Education | Santa Clara University (B.S. in Political Science) |
| Current Position | Governor of California (2019–Present) |
| Previous Roles | Lieutenant Governor of California (2011–2019), Mayor of San Francisco (2004–2011), San Francisco Board of Supervisors (1997–2004) |
| Spouse | Jennifer Siebel Newsom (m. 2008), Kimberly Guilfoyle (m. 2001–2006) |
| Children | 4 |
| Net Worth | Estimated $20 million (2025) |
| Key Policies | Climate Change, Homelessness, Gun Control, COVID-19 Response |
| Controversies | COVID-19 lockdown violations, High-speed rail project delays, Handling of homelessness crisis |
| Signature Legislation | California Universal Health Coverage, Assault Weapons Ban, Minimum Wage Increases |
| Social Media | Twitter, Instagram |
Would you like a more in-depth biography or the latest news on Gavin Newsom in 2025
Latest News (2025)
As of March 2025, Gavin Newsom is making headlines for his recent push to strengthen climate change legislation in California. He has proposed a bill aimed at achieving carbon neutrality by 2035, which has sparked both support and criticism from environmental activists and business leaders. The proposal highlights his continued dedication to addressing climate crises and transitioning California to clean energy sources.
Social Media Accounts
| Platform | Official Link |
| @GavinNewsom | |
| @gavinnewsom | |
| Gavin Newsom | |
| Official Website | gavinnewsom.com |
Physical Appearance
Gavin Newsom stands approximately 6 feet 3 inches (1.91 meters) tall. He has a slim build, with distinctive salt-and-pepper hair, often seen in tailored suits reflecting his polished public image.
Net Worth (2025)
As of 2025, Gavin Newsom’s estimated net worth is around $20 million. His wealth primarily comes from business ventures, real estate investments, and his political career. He has been involved in multiple hospitality businesses, including the PlumpJack Group, which operates wineries, hotels, and restaurants.
People Also Ask
What is the Governor of California’s salary?
As of 2024, the Governor of California’s salary is approximately $218,556 per year. This amount is set by the California Citizens Compensation Commission, which reviews and adjusts salaries for state elected officials annually.
Who is the new Governor of California?
As of 2025, the Governor of California is Gavin Newsom. He has been serving as governor since January 7, 2019, after winning the 2018 election. Newsom was re-elected in 2022 and is currently in his second term.
Who was the Governor of California before Newsom?
Before Gavin Newsom, the Governor of California was Jerry Brown. He served two consecutive terms from 2011 to 2019. Interestingly, Jerry Brown also served as California’s governor from 1975 to 1983, making him both the youngest and oldest governor in the state’s history.
