History of Gavin Newsom in Timeline
Gavin Newsom is an American politician and businessman currently serving as the 40th governor of California since 2019. A Democrat, he previously held the office of the 49th lieutenant governor of California from 2011 to 2019. Prior to his statewide roles, Newsom was the 42nd mayor of San Francisco, serving from 2004 to 2011. His career reflects a trajectory of political leadership within California, progressing from local to state-level governance.
October 10, 1967: Gavin Newsom's Birth
On October 10, 1967, Gavin Christopher Newsom was born. He is now a politician and businessman, currently serving as the 40th governor of California since 2019.
1971: Parents' Divorce
In 1971, when Gavin Newsom was three years old, his parents divorced, leaving his mother to raise him and his sister.
1985: Graduated from Redwood High School
In 1985, Gavin Newsom graduated from Redwood High School in Larkspur, California.
1985: Elbow Surgery
In late 1985, Gavin Newsom underwent elbow surgery, later revealed as a procedure to repair a torn ulnar collateral ligament, ending his varsity baseball aspirations.
1989: Graduated from Santa Clara University
In 1989, Gavin Newsom graduated from Santa Clara University with a Bachelor of Science degree in political science.
May 14, 1991: Created PlumpJack Associates L.P.
On May 14, 1991, Gavin Newsom and his investors created the company PlumpJack Associates L.P.
1992: Started PlumpJack Winery
In 1992, Gavin Newsom started the PlumpJack Winery with the financial assistance of Gordon Getty.
1993: Opened PlumpJack Café
In 1993, the PlumpJack Cafe Partners L.P. opened the PlumpJack Café on Fillmore Street.
1994: Opened PlumpJack Squaw Valley Inn
In 1994, Newsom and his investors opened the PlumpJack Squaw Valley Inn with a PlumpJack Café.
1995: Opened Winery and Balboa Café Bar and Grill
In 1995, Gavin Newsom and his investors opened a winery in Napa Valley and the Balboa Café Bar and Grill.
1995: Volunteered for Willie Brown's campaign
In 1995, Gavin Newsom volunteered for Willie Brown's successful campaign for mayor and hosted a private fundraiser at his PlumpJack Café.
1996: Opened PlumpJack Development Fund L.P.
In 1996, Gavin Newsom and his investors opened the PlumpJack Development Fund L.P.
1996: Appointed to the Parking and Traffic Commission
In 1996, Gavin Newsom began his political career after being appointed to San Francisco's Parking and Traffic Commission by Mayor Willie Brown.
1997: Appointed to Board of Supervisors
In 1997, Gavin Newsom was appointed by Willie Brown to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors seat vacated by Kevin Shelley.
1998: Opened MatrixFillmore Bar
In 1998, Gavin Newsom and his investors opened the MatrixFillmore Bar.
1998: Elected to full term on the board
In 1998, Gavin Newsom was elected to a full four-year term to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors.
1998: Elected to the Board of Supervisors
In 1998, Gavin Newsom was elected to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors.
1998: Endorsed by Rescue Muni
In his 1998 reelection campaign, Gavin Newsom was one of two supervisors endorsed by Rescue Muni, a transit riders group.
November 1999: Voters approved ballot measure
In November 1999, voters approved a ballot measure sponsored by Gavin Newsom from Rescue Muni.
1999: Opened PlumpJack Wines shop
In 1999, Gavin Newsom and his investors opened the PlumpJack Wines shop Noe Valley branch.
1999: Voters chose district system
In 1999, San Francisco voters chose to abandon at-large elections to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors for the previous district system.
2000: Opened PlumpJackSport retail clothing store
In 2000, Gavin Newsom and his investors opened PlumpJackSport retail clothing store and a second Balboa Café at Squaw Valley.
2000: Contributed to Republican slate mailer
In 2000, Gavin Newsom contributed $500 to a Republican slate mailer that endorsed issues he supported.
2000: Reelected to Board of Supervisors
In 2000, Gavin Newsom was reelected to represent the second district on the Board of Supervisors.
December 2001: Newsom marries Kimberly Guilfoyle
In December 2001, Gavin Newsom married legal commentator Kimberly Guilfoyle at Saint Ignatius Catholic Church, marking a significant relationship milestone.
2001: Annual Income
From 1996 to 2001, Gavin Newsom's annual income was greater than $429,000.
2002: Reelected to Board of Supervisors
In 2002, Gavin Newsom was reelected to represent the second district on the Board of Supervisors.
2002: Business Holdings Valued
In 2002, Gavin Newsom's business holdings were valued at more than $6.9 million.
November 4, 2003: Placed first in general election
On November 4, 2003, Gavin Newsom placed first in the general election with 41.9% of the vote.
2003: Leading Contender for Mayorship
In 2003, Care Not Cash raised Gavin Newsom's political profile and helped make him a leading contender for the San Francisco mayorship.
2003: Elected Mayor of San Francisco
In 2003, Gavin Newsom was elected as the mayor of San Francisco.
January 8, 2004: Sworn in as Mayor of San Francisco
On January 8, 2004, Gavin Newsom was sworn in as mayor of San Francisco, calling for unity and promising to address issues such as public schools, potholes, and affordable housing.
2004: Newsom and Guilfoyle separate
In 2004, Gavin Newsom and Kimberly Guilfoyle separated, indicating difficulties in their marriage due to their careers on opposite coasts.
2004: Became Mayor of San Francisco
In 2004, Gavin Newsom became the 42nd Mayor of San Francisco.
2004: Sold San Francisco business shares
In 2004, Gavin Newsom sold his share of his San Francisco businesses upon becoming mayor.
January 2005: Newsom and Guilfoyle file for divorce
In January 2005, Gavin Newsom and Kimberly Guilfoyle jointly filed for divorce, citing "difficulties due to their careers on opposite coasts," marking a formal end to their marriage.
2005: Newsom has affair with Ruby Rippey-Tourk
In 2005, Gavin Newsom had an affair with Ruby Rippey-Tourk, who was his appointments secretary at the time. This affair led to the resignation of Alex Tourk in January 2007.
February 2006: Purchased residence in Russian Hill
In February 2006, Gavin Newsom paid $2,350,000 for his residence in the Russian Hill neighborhood.
February 28, 2006: Newsom and Guilfoyle divorce finalized
On February 28, 2006, Gavin Newsom's divorce from Kimberly Guilfoyle was finalized, ending their marriage. By this time, Guilfoyle was expecting a child with Eric Villency.
September 2006: Newsom briefly dates Brittanie Mountz
In September 2006, Gavin Newsom, then 38, briefly dated 19-year-old Brittanie Mountz, a model and restaurant hostess.
October 2006: Newsom begins dating Jennifer Siebel
In October 2006, Gavin Newsom began dating film director Jennifer Siebel, marking the beginning of their relationship.
January 31, 2007: Alex Tourk confronts Newsom and resigns
On January 31, 2007, Gavin Newsom's close friend, campaign manager, and former chief of staff Alex Tourk confronted him after learning about an affair between Newsom and Tourk's wife, Ruby Rippey-Tourk, in 2005. Tourk immediately resigned.
February 2007: Newsom seeks treatment for alcohol use disorder
In February 2007, Gavin Newsom announced he would seek treatment for alcohol use disorder, acknowledging a personal struggle and seeking help.
August 10, 2007: Filing deadline for San Francisco mayoral election
When the August 10, 2007, filing deadline passed, San Francisco's discussion shifted to talk about Gavin Newsom's second term. He was challenged in the election by 13 candidates, including George Davis, a nudist activist, and Michael Powers, owner of the Power Exchange sex club.
August 2007: Newsom raised $1.6 million for reelection campaign
In August 2007, The San Francisco Chronicle reported that Gavin Newsom faced no "serious threat to his re-election bid", having raised $1.6 million for his reelection campaign by early August.
December 2007: Newsom and Siebel announce engagement
In December 2007, Gavin Newsom and Jennifer Siebel announced their engagement, solidifying their commitment to each other.
2007: Earned from business interests
In 2007, Gavin Newsom earned between $141,000 and $251,000 from his business interests.
2007: Reelected Mayor of San Francisco
In 2007, Gavin Newsom was reelected as the mayor of San Francisco.
July 2008: Newsom and Siebel marry in Montana
In July 2008, Gavin Newsom and Jennifer Siebel were married in Stevensville, Montana, celebrating their union. They now have four children.
2008: Newsom describes himself as an 'Irish Catholic rebel'
In 2008, Gavin Newsom described himself as an "Irish Catholic rebel" who still has tremendous admiration for the Church and a strong faith. He also acknowledged that the Catholic Church was in crisis.
2008: Care Not Cash program evaluated
In 2008, a city audit evaluated the Care Not Cash program as largely successful for lowering average cash payments per person and the number of people receiving cash payments.
April 2009: Listed Russian Hill residence for sale
In April 2009, Gavin Newsom put his residence in the Russian Hill neighborhood on the market for $3,000,000.
2010: Elected Lieutenant Governor of California
In 2010, Gavin Newsom was elected as the Lieutenant Governor of California.
2010: Democratic gubernatorial nominee wins over 60% of the vote
In 2010, the Democratic gubernatorial nominee won over 60% of the vote.
2011: Became Lieutenant Governor of California
In 2011, Gavin Newsom became the 49th Lieutenant Governor of California.
2011: Newsom Completes Service as Mayor of San Francisco
In 2011, Gavin Newsom completed his service as mayor of San Francisco.
2011: Jennifer Siebel Newsom launches The Representation Project
In 2011, Jennifer Siebel Newsom launched her nonprofit organization The Representation Project, which later received significant donations from corporations that lobbied the state government.
2011: Guilfoyle gains prominence on Fox News
In 2011, Kimberly Guilfoyle gained prominence via a Fox News chat show, marking a significant milestone in her career and public profile.
2012: Hosted "The Gavin Newsom Show"
From 2012 to 2013, Gavin Newsom hosted "The Gavin Newsom Show".
2012: California voters uphold capital punishment
In 2012, California voters upheld capital punishment.
2012: Newsom Family Moves to Marin County
In 2012, after completing his service as mayor, Gavin Newsom and his family moved to a house they bought in Kentfield in Marin County.
2013: Authored "Citizenville"
In 2013, Gavin Newsom wrote the book "Citizenville," which is about using digital tools for democratic change.
2014: Reelected Lieutenant Governor of California
In 2014, Gavin Newsom was reelected as the Lieutenant Governor of California.
2016: California voters agree to move condemned to other prisons
In 2016, California voters agreed to move the condemned to other prisons.
2016: Newsom promotes Proposition 63
In 2016, as lieutenant governor, Gavin Newsom was the official proponent of Proposition 63, a ballot measure requiring background checks and California Department of Justice authorization for ammunition purchases, among other gun control regulations.
2018: Elected Governor of California
In 2018, Gavin Newsom was elected as the Governor of California.
2018: Newsom wins gubernatorial election
In 2018, Gavin Newsom won the gubernatorial election.
2018: Rippey-Tourk speaks out about affair
In 2018, Ruby Rippey-Tourk said that she thought it wrong to associate Gavin Newsom's behavior with the #MeToo movement, emphasizing her agency as a "free-thinking, 33-yr old adult married woman and mother" during the affair.
2018: California law expedites pardon requests
In 2018, a California law mandated expedited review of pardon requests from people facing deportation by the state Board of Parole Hearings.
2018: Fire destroyed the town of Paradise
In 2018, a fire destroyed the town of Paradise, where at least eight evacuees burned to death in their vehicles.
January 2019: Newsom announces lawsuit against Huntington Beach
In late January 2019, Gavin Newsom announced that he would sue Huntington Beach for preventing the construction of affordable housing. This was part of his broader effort to address California's housing shortage by holding communities accountable for taking action.
February 2019: Postponement of Central Valley segment of high-speed rail
In his February 2019 State of the State address, Gavin Newsom announced that while work would continue on the Central Valley segment from Bakersfield to Merced, the rest of the high-speed rail system would be indefinitely postponed due to cost overruns and delays.
March 13, 2019: Newsom declares moratorium on death penalty
On March 13, 2019, Gavin Newsom declared a moratorium on the death penalty in California, halting executions and closing the execution chamber at San Quentin State Prison.
May 2019: Newsom pardons formerly incarcerated people
In May 2019, Gavin Newsom pardoned seven formerly incarcerated people, including two Cambodian refugees facing deportation, in his first acts of clemency as governor.
May 2019: Newsom Purchases Expensive Home in Fair Oaks
In May 2019, it was reported that Gavin Newsom purchased a 12,000-square-foot home in Fair Oaks for $3.7 million, making it the most expensive private residence sold in the Sacramento region since the beginning of the year.
June 2019: Newsom apologizes for genocide of Native Americans
In June 2019, Gavin Newsom apologized for the genocide of Native Americans approved and abetted by the California state government upon statehood in the 19th century, acknowledging the deaths of at least 4,500 Native Californians between 1849 and 1870.
June 2019: Medi-Cal eligibility expanded
In June 2019, the budget passed expanded eligibility for Medi-Cal from solely undocumented minor children to undocumented young adults from ages 19 to 25.
September 2019: Signing of the Wildlife Protection Act
In September 2019, Gavin Newsom signed the Wildlife Protection Act, which prohibited commercial and recreational fur trapping.
September 2019: Newsom vetoes SB 1
In September 2019, Gavin Newsom vetoed SB 1, which would have preserved environmental protections at the state level.
October 2019: Legislation signed banning fur products and bobcat hunting
In October 2019, Gavin Newsom signed legislation prohibiting the manufacture and sale of new fur products in California, banning bobcat hunting, ending the use of most animals in circuses, and strengthening Proposition 6's prohibition on horse meat and horse slaughter.
November 2019: Moratorium on hydraulic fracturing and steam-injected oil drilling
In November 2019, Gavin Newsom imposed a moratorium on approval of new hydraulic fracturing and steam-injected oil drilling in California. This was until the permits for those projects could be reviewed by an independent panel of scientists.
November 2019: Newsom pardons men to avoid deportation to Cambodia or Vietnam
In November 2019, Gavin Newsom pardoned three men to avoid being deported to Cambodia or Vietnam, all of whom had committed crimes at age 19.
December 2019: Newsom grants parole to Cambodian refugee
In December 2019, Gavin Newsom granted parole to a Cambodian refugee who had been held in a California prison due to a murder case, but he was turned over to federal agents for possible deportation.
2019: Newsom's veto rate begins
From 2019 to 2021, Newsom vetoed 12.7% of the bills the legislature passed on average.
2019: Became Governor of California
In 2019, Gavin Newsom assumed the role of the 40th Governor of California.
2019: Newsom attends UN Climate Action Summit
In 2019, Gavin Newsom attended the UN Climate Action Summit, highlighting California's role as a climate leader.
2019: CalMatters analysis finds Newsom moderate
In 2019, a CalMatters analysis determined that Gavin Newsom's political positions were more moderate than almost every Democratic state legislator in California.
2019: Calls for nationwide background checks on ammunition
In 2019, in response to the mass shooting in Virginia Beach, Gavin Newsom called for nationwide background checks on people purchasing ammunition.
2019: Spoke about Studying Abroad
In a 2019 speech, Gavin Newsom called his semester studying abroad in Rome, Italy, during his junior year "eye-opening," as it exposed him to global perspectives that influenced his political career.
2019: Newsom Lists and Removes Marin County Home from Market
In early 2019, Newsom initially listed the Marin County property for sale at $5.895 million, but later removed it from the market after reducing the price to $5.695 million.
January 2020: Newsom and Cal Fire falsely claimed success in wildfire prevention
In January 2020, Gavin Newsom and Cal Fire falsely claimed that 90,000 acres of land at risk for wildfires had been treated with fuel breaks and prescribed burns.
February 2020: Newsom administration sues federal agencies
In February 2020, the Gavin Newsom administration sued federal agencies over the rollbacks to protect imperiled fish in the Sacramento–San Joaquin River Delta in 2019.
March 4, 2020: Newsom declares state of emergency due to COVID-19
On March 4, 2020, Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency in California after the first COVID-19 death, aiming to prepare for and contain the virus's spread, allowing for easier procurement of resources and prioritization of mitigating policies for the homeless population.
March 22, 2020: Newsom declares state of emergency for wildfire season
On March 22, 2020, Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency due to a mass die-off of trees throughout California, increasing the risk of wildfires in preparation for the 2020 wildfire season.
April 2020: Resumption of hydraulic fracturing permits
In April 2020, state agencies in California resumed issuing new hydraulic fracturing permits after a moratorium.
August 2020: Newsom addresses Democratic National Convention
In August 2020, Gavin Newsom addressed the 2020 Democratic National Convention, mentioning climate change and California wildfires.
September 2020: Newsom signs bill on transgender inmates' housing
In September 2020, Gavin Newsom signed a bill allowing California transgender inmates to be placed in prisons corresponding with their gender identity, with possible denials based on security concerns.
September 2020: Newsom approval rating was 64%
In September 2020, Gavin Newsom's approval rating was 64%.
September 23, 2020: Newsom signs executive order to phase out gasoline vehicles
On September 23, 2020, Gavin Newsom signed an executive order to phase out sales of gasoline-powered vehicles, requiring all new passenger vehicles sold in the state to be zero-emission by 2035.
2020: Increased use of executive orders
In 2020, Gavin Newsom used a larger than normal number of executive orders during the legislative session.
2020: Homelessness identified as top issue for California
In 2020, a poll revealed that California voters considered homelessness the most pressing issue for Gavin Newsom and the state legislature to address, highlighting the urgency of the problem.
2020: Newsom makes key appointments
In 2020, after Kamala Harris became Vice President, Gavin Newsom appointed Alex Padilla as U.S. Senator, Shirley Weber as Secretary of State, and later Rob Bonta as Attorney General.
2020: Newsom administration enacted stringent pandemic restrictions
In 2020, the Newsom administration enacted some of the country's most stringent pandemic restrictions.
January 2021: California had one of the lowest vaccination rates in the country
By January 2021, California had one of the lowest vaccination rates in the country, using about 30% of its available vaccines.
January 2021: Newsom's administration mismanaged unemployment benefits
In January 2021, the Los Angeles Times reported that Gavin Newsom's administration had mismanaged $11.4 billion by disbursing unemployment benefits to ineligible claimants, and another $19 billion in claims remained under investigation for fraud.
February 2021: Julie Su appointed as deputy secretary of labor
In February 2021, Julie Su, Newsom appointee and California Labor Secretary, was appointed as deputy secretary of labor by President Joe Biden.
February 2021: Newsom approval rating declines
In February 2021, a poll found that Gavin Newsom's approval rate was down to 46%, with 48% disapproval, the highest of his tenure, due to public opinion of his management of the pandemic.
April 2021: Commitment to end gas lease sales and oil extraction
In April 2021, Gavin Newsom committed to ending the sale of gas leases by 2024 and ending oil extraction by 2045 in California.
May 2021: California had 29th-highest death rate despite stringent restrictions
By May 2021, despite stringent pandemic restrictions in 2020, California had the 29th-highest death rate among all 50 states.
June 10, 2021: Newsom criticizes Judge Benitez and proposes legislation
On June 10, 2021, Gavin Newsom criticized federal Judge Roger Benitez and proposed legislation empowering private citizens to enforce California's ban on assault weapons after the United States Supreme Court declined to strike down the Texas Heartbeat Act.
June 23, 2021: Report reveals Newsom and Cal Fire overstated wildfire prevention efforts
On June 23, 2021, CapRadio reported that Gavin Newsom and Cal Fire falsely claimed in January 2020 that 90,000 acres of land at risk for wildfires had been treated, when the actual treated area was only 11,399 acres.
August 2021: Newsom Sells Marin County Home
In August 2021, Newsom sold the Marin County home for $5.9 million in an off-market transaction.
September 2021: California vaccination rate increases
By September 2021, over half the California population was fully vaccinated, ranking #16 out of the 50 states.
September 2021: Newsom signs police reform legislation
In September 2021, Gavin Newsom signed legislation raising the minimum age to become a police officer to 21, restricting tear gas use, banning employment of officers with misconduct records, and requiring officers to intervene against excessive force.
October 2021: Proposal for a buffer between fossil fuel sites and populated areas
In October 2021, Gavin Newsom proposed a 3,200-foot (980 m) buffer between new fossil fuel extraction sites and densely populated areas.
December 2021: Announcement of California as an abortion 'sanctuary'
In December 2021, Gavin Newsom announced his intention to make California a "sanctuary" for abortion, potentially paying for procedures, travel, and lodging for out-of-state abortion seekers.
2021: California owed $23 billion for unemployment benefits
By the summer of 2021, California owed $23 billion to the federal government for unemployment benefits paid out during the pandemic, which was 43% of all unemployment debt owed by 13 states at the time.
2021: Newsom's veto rate continues
From 2019 to 2021, Newsom vetoed 12.7% of the bills the legislature passed on average. The rate declined over the course of the three legislative sessions.
2021: Connie Ballmer donates to Newsom campaign
In 2021, Connie Ballmer donated $1 million to the Newsom campaign, which led to criticism and ethics concerns in 2024, when Newsom signed AB 3206 into law, carving out an exception to the state's last call alcohol law for Intuit Dome, a venue owned by her husband.
2021: Newsom faced a recall election
In 2021, Gavin Newsom faced a recall election, a significant challenge to his governorship.
2021: Faced Recall Effort
In 2021, Gavin Newsom faced an unsuccessful recall effort due to criticism surrounding his personal behavior and leadership style during the COVID-19 pandemic.
2021: Newsom signs bills to ease zoning restrictions
In 2021, Gavin Newsom signed a pair of bills into law that made zoning regulations for housing less restrictive, allowing construction of duplexes and fourplexes in areas previously zoned for single-family homes. He also signed a bill to expedite environmental reviews for multifamily developments worth at least $15,000,000.
2021: Medi-Cal eligibility expands to undocumented residents over 50
In 2021, Gavin Newsom signed legislation expanding Medi-Cal eligibility to undocumented residents over age 50.
2021: Newsom defends his wife's nonprofit accepting donations from lobbying companies
In 2021, Governor Newsom stated that he saw no conflict in his wife's nonprofit, The Representation Project, accepting donations from companies that lobby his administration.
2021: Poll suggests declining support for capital punishment
In 2021, a poll suggested declining support for capital punishment among California voters.
January 13, 2022: Newsom denies parole to Sirhan Sirhan
On January 13, 2022, Gavin Newsom denied parole to Sirhan Sirhan, Robert F. Kennedy's assassin, despite a parole board recommendation, citing Sirhan's lack of insight into his crime.
January 2022: Newsom directs dismantling of death row
In January 2022, Gavin Newsom directed California to begin dismantling its death row at San Quentin, planning to transform it into a "space for rehabilitation programs".
March 2022: Bill signed requiring full abortion coverage by private health insurance
In March 2022, Gavin Newsom signed a bill requiring private health insurance plans in California to fully cover abortion procedures, eliminating co-pays and deductibles.
April 2022: Report finds fire prevention program failed
In April 2022, a report found a program, hailed in 2020 by the Newsom administration to fast-track environmental reviews on high-priority fire prevention projects, had failed to make progress.
June 30, 2022: State budget pledges universal healthcare access
On June 30, 2022, Gavin Newsom signed a $307.9 billion state budget that "pledges to make all low-income adults eligible for the state's Medicaid program by 2024 regardless of their immigration status."
July 6, 2022: Office of Health Care Affordability established
On July 6, 2022, Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 184, which established the Office of Health Care Affordability, aiming to contain health care costs in California.
September 2022: Windfall profits tax and penalty proposed for oil companies
In September 2022, Gavin Newsom proposed a windfall profits tax and penalty for oil companies in response to high gas prices in California.
September 2022: California becomes first sanctuary state for transgender youth
In September 2022, Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 107 into law, making California the first sanctuary state for transgender youth, offering protections and support to transgender individuals.
September 2022: Legislation signed banning animal testing of pesticides
In September 2022, Gavin Newsom signed legislation that banned animal testing of pesticides and other chemical substances on dogs and cats.
September 2022: Newsom says he won't run for President in 2024
In September 2022, Gavin Newsom stated that he would not run for president in 2024, citing his "vulnerable" 2021 recall election.
2022: Newsom declares NIMBYism is destroying the state
In 2022, Gavin Newsom declared that NIMBYism (not-in-my-back-yard) is destroying the state, underscoring his opposition to local resistance to housing development.
2022: Newsom signs bills to address housing crisis
In 2022, Gavin Newsom signed 39 bills into law aimed at addressing California's housing crisis, including measures that eliminated parking requirements near mass transit and allowed for housing development on commercially zoned lots.
2022: Newsom elected to second term
In 2022, Gavin Newsom was elected to a second term as governor, defeating Republican state senator Brian Dahle with 59.2% of the vote. This margin was smaller than his 2018 victory.
January 2023: Homelessness reaches record high in California
In January 2023, the number of homeless people in California hit a record high of over 181,000, underscoring the ongoing challenges in addressing the state's housing and homelessness crisis.
February 2023: Organization of the Reproductive Freedom Alliance
In February 2023, Gavin Newsom organized the Reproductive Freedom Alliance of state governors supportive of abortion and reproductive rights.
March 2023: Newsom announces cutting ties with Walgreens
In March 2023, after Walgreens announced it would refuse to dispense abortion pills in 21 states where it is illegal, Newsom tweeted that California would cut ties with Walgreens, accusing them of cowering to extremists. He indicated he wanted to cancel Walgreens' $54 million contract with the California state prison system.
March 28, 2023: Law signed to penalize oil company profits
On March 28, 2023, Gavin Newsom signed a law authorizing the California Energy Commission to set a profit threshold for oil companies, requiring them to report additional profit data, and creating an oversight division to investigate price gouging.
April 2023: Article discusses the inevitability of Newsom presidential run
In April 2023, an article published in The Hill by journalist Sharon Udasin discussed the inevitability of a Gavin Newsom presidential run, highlighting speculation about his future political ambitions.
April 25, 2023: Newsom endorses Biden's reelection campaign
On April 25, 2023, Gavin Newsom endorsed President Biden's reelection campaign, signaling his support for the incumbent and dampening speculation about his own presidential ambitions for 2024.
May 2023: Schwarzenegger predicts Newsom will run for president
In May 2023, Arnold Schwarzenegger stated that it was a "no-brainer" that Gavin Newsom would someday run for president, adding fuel to the ongoing speculation about his future political aspirations.
June 8, 2023: Newsom proposes 28th amendment to U.S. Constitution
On June 8, 2023, Gavin Newsom proposed a 28th amendment to the U.S. Constitution to raise the age to buy firearms to 21, institute universal background checks, mandate waiting periods, and ban assault weapons for civilians.
June 2023: Poll shows voter interest in Newsom 2024 run
According to a June 2023 poll by NewsNation, 22% of California voters wanted Gavin Newsom to enter the 2024 presidential election, reflecting a level of support for a potential Newsom candidacy.
June 2023: Newsom issues Pride Month Proclamation and actions
In June 2023, Gavin Newsom issued an official state proclamation for Pride Month, fined a school district $1.5 million for rejecting a curriculum including a biography of gay rights leader Harvey Milk, and signed a bill prohibiting schools from banning textbooks based on inclusion of references to people from minority groups or the LGBT community, reaffirming his support for LGBT rights.
September 2023: Newsom appoints Laphonza Butler to Senate seat
In September 2023, Gavin Newsom appointed Laphonza Butler to the U.S. Senate seat after Dianne Feinstein's death, fulfilling his promise to appoint a Black woman to the position.
October 2023: Newsom visits China
In October 2023, Gavin Newsom embarked on a week-long visit to China, including Hong Kong, Beijing, Guangdong, Jiangsu and Shanghai, where he discussed climate change, trade relations, and fentanyl production with Chinese president Xi Jinping.
October 2023: Newsom vetoes bill to ban caste discrimination
In October 2023, Gavin Newsom vetoed a bill to ban discrimination based on caste, calling it "unnecessary" due to existing protections against discrimination. The veto was applauded by Hindu rights organizations and criticized by advocates for Dalit rights.
October 2023: Veto of bill to cap insulin co-pays
In October 2023, Gavin Newsom vetoed a bill to cap co-pays for insulin at $35 in California.
October 2023: Newsom vetoes bills on unemployment insurance and layoff protections
In October 2023, Gavin Newsom vetoed a bill to provide unemployment insurance to striking workers, citing the burden on the state's system. He also vetoed a bill to expand layoff protections, arguing it would negatively impact businesses.
October 2023: Newsom vetoes bills to expand housing assistance
In October 2023, Gavin Newsom vetoed several bills aimed at expanding access to housing assistance, including one to repurpose state-owned land for affordable housing, citing concerns over state sovereignty.
October 20, 2023: Newsom visits Israel during Gaza war
On October 20, 2023, Gavin Newsom visited Israel to express solidarity with the country during the Gaza war. He met with Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Israeli president Isaac Herzog, other top Israeli officials, and survivors of the 2023 Hamas-led attack on Israel.
November 2023: Newsom debates DeSantis on Fox News
In November 2023, Gavin Newsom and Florida governor Ron DeSantis debated on Fox News, with Sean Hannity as the moderator. This high-profile event highlighted the political contrasts between the two governors.
2023: California's fur sales ban becomes effective
In 2023, California's fur sales ban became effective, making California the first state to ban new fur sales.
2023: Newsom launches Campaign for Democracy PAC
In 2023, Gavin Newsom launched Campaign for Democracy, a PAC to take on "authoritarian leaders" in the U.S. It is seen as a starting point for a possible 2028 presidential bid.
2023: Discussed Dyslexia in Interview
In a 2023 interview, Gavin Newsom discussed how his dyslexia forced him to develop workarounds and different thinking skills that he uses every day as governor.
February 2024: Newsom pushed for Panera Bread exemption in minimum wage bill
In February 2024, Bloomberg News reported that Newsom pushed for an exemption for businesses that bake and sell bread in AB 1228, a bill that raises the state's minimum wage for fast food workers. The exemption included 24 Panera Bread bakery-cafes owned by Greg Flynn, a businessman who donated to Newsom's campaigns.
March 2024: Washington State Enacts Octopus Farming Ban
In March 2024, Washington enacted a ban on octopus farming, making California the second state to enact this type of ban.
July 2024: Campaign for Democracy raises $24 million
As of July 2024, Gavin Newsom's Campaign for Democracy has raised $24 million for direct contributions to candidates and other spending. The group can coordinate with Newsom as long as he is not a candidate for federal office.
July 2024: Newsom launches Politickin' podcast and endorses Harris for president
In July 2024, Gavin Newsom launched a podcast, Politickin', and after Biden's sudden withdrawal from the presidential race, endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for president, solidifying his support within the Democratic party.
July 2024: Newsom signs SAFETY Act
In July 2024, Gavin Newsom signed the "SAFETY Act", which prohibits schools from outing students' gender identity to their parents without the students' consent, further protecting the rights of LGBT students.
August 2024: Newsom warns counties on homeless encampments
In August 2024, Gavin Newsom warned counties that failure to remove homeless encampments would result in their state funding being cut off the next year. This warning followed his personal visit to and clearing of a Los Angeles homeless encampment.
September 2024: Legislation signed prohibiting commercial octopus farming
In September 2024, Gavin Newsom signed legislation prohibiting the commercial farming of octopuses in California, citing their intelligence and sentience.
September 2024: AB 3206 signed into law for Intuit Dome alcohol exception
In September 2024, the Los Angeles Times reported that Newsom had signed AB 3206 into law, carving out an exception to the state's last call alcohol law for one specific venue, Intuit Dome. This was owned by former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer, whose wife donated $1 million to Newsom's campaign in 2021, which led to criticism and ethics concerns.
October 2024: Newsom signs California Racial Mascots Act
In October 2024, Gavin Newsom signed AB 3074, the "California Racial Mascots Act", which prohibits K-12 schools not run by recognized Native American tribes from using "derogatory" names or mascots.
December 2024: Newsom criticizes Biden for pardoning his son
In December 2024, Gavin Newsom criticized President Biden for pardoning his son Hunter Biden, stating that he was "disappointed and can't support the decision," showcasing his willingness to disagree with his own party's leadership.
2024: Newsom calls for California lawmakers to safeguard policies
After Donald Trump won the 2024 presidential election, Gavin Newsom called for California lawmakers to convene later in 2024 to safeguard California's policies from the upcoming Trump administration, signaling a proactive approach to protecting state interests.
2024: Newsom pledges to appoint a Black woman to replace Dianne Feinstein
In 2024, Gavin Newsom pledged to appoint a Black woman to replace Dianne Feinstein if she were to retire or die before her term ended.
2024: Medicaid program to provide care to low-income adults
In 2024, Gavin Newsom signed a $307.9 billion state budget that will allow all low-income adults to be eligible for the state's Medicaid program regardless of their immigration status.
2024: Rumors of Newsom as potential presidential candidate.
Many journalists and political analysts have mentioned Gavin Newsom as a potential presidential hopeful for the 2024 election.
June 2025: Newsom sues Trump over troop deployment
In June 2025, following federal immigration raids and protests in Los Angeles, Gavin Newsom, as the State of California, filed a federal lawsuit, Newsom v. Trump, challenging the legality of President Trump's deployment of troops to California.
July 2025: DOJ names California, Newsom, and public officials in lawsuit
In July 2025, the Department of Justice named the state of California, Gavin Newsom, and other California public officials in a lawsuit targeting the state's regulations against intensive battery cage eggs, including Proposition 2 and Proposition 12.
2025: Hosted "This is Gavin Newsom" Podcast
Since 2025, Gavin Newsom has hosted the podcast "This is Gavin Newsom".
2028: Potential presidential bid in 2028
Gavin Newsom's launch of Campaign for Democracy in 2023 is thought to be a starting point for a possible 2028 presidential bid.
2028: Newsom adjusts approach for potential 2028 presidential campaign
In anticipation of a potential 2028 presidential campaign, Gavin Newsom has adjusted his political approach to appeal to a broader electorate, including engaging with conservative voices like Charlie Kirk and Steve Bannon.
2035: All new passenger vehicles sold in California must be zero-emission
In 2035, all new passenger vehicles sold in California must be zero-emission.
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