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He also attempted to extend his apology to the people of San Francisco, who had just watched their young mayor implode on national television.
“I’m also sorry that I’ve let the people of San Francisco down,” he added. “They expect a lot of their mayor… I am committed to restoring their trust and confidence and will work very hard in the upcoming months to make sure that the business of running the city is framed appropriately.”
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The fallout was swift. Tourk immediately resigned as Newsom’s chief of staff, and the city’s political class began questioning whether the scandal revealed a deeper lack of judgment. For many voters, the affair was not just a personal failing — it became shorthand for questions about honesty, responsibility, and integrity.
The media circus was relentless. Newsom’s tearful apology didn’t stop the late-night comedians from roasting him or silence his critics who viewed the scandal as proof that he wasn’t ready for higher office. Still, Newsom managed to ride out the storm, climb the political ladder, and eventually claim the governor’s mansion in Sacramento.
But nearly two decades later, that dark chapter is far from forgotten. As Democrats quietly float Newsom as a potential future presidential candidate, his critics are more than ready to drag the scandal back into the spotlight.
The issue has taken on a new dimension in the era of #MeToo. Because Gibney worked in Newsom’s office, some have argued the affair could be considered workplace misconduct. Gibney herself has defended Newsom, writing on Facebook, “To be clear, I fully support the Me Too movement. In this particular instance, however, I am doubtful that it applies.” She admitted she was a subordinate but insisted the relationship was her choice.
Still, the episode lingers like a shadow — one that could become a serious liability if Newsom tries to convince Americans to put him in the Oval Office.
And if his recent comments are any indication, the governor may be his own worst enemy. Just last week, Newsom appeared on a podcast where his anger toward Republicans boiled over in shocking fashion.
“This is radical rigging of a midterm election,” Newsom ranted, blasting Texas’ efforts to add GOP congressional seats through redistricting. “Destroying, vandalizing this democracy, the rule of law.”
Then he escalated further.
“So, I’m sorry, I know some people’s sensibilities. I respect and appreciate that. But right now, with all due respect, we’re walking down a damn different path,” he continued. “We’re fighting fire with fire, and we’re gonna punch these sons of b****es in the mouth.”
It was an unhinged outburst from a man who Democrats want to position as presidential material. Instead of projecting calm leadership, Newsom seemed more interested in glorifying political violence against Republicans.
If the California governor truly believes he can sell himself to America as a viable alternative in 2028, he will have to overcome not only his radical rhetoric but also a personal scandal that refuses to disappear.
