Who is newsom campaign manager wife?

Updated: February 26, 2026

Who is newsom campaign manager wife? The scandal involving Gavin Newsom and the wife of his campaign manager dates back to his time as Mayor of San Francisco. In early 2007, it emerged that Newsom had an affair with Ruby Rippey-Tourk (now known as Ruby Rippey Gibney), who was married to Alex Tourk, Newsom’s close friend and re-election campaign manager at the time. This created a major controversy in San Francisco politics.

The Scandal That Shook San Francisco Politics

Back in the mid-2000s, Gavin Newsom was rising fast as the charismatic Mayor of San Francisco. He had already made national headlines by issuing same-sex marriage licenses in 2004. But in January 2007, a personal scandal hit hard. Newsom admitted to a short-lived affair with Ruby Rippey-Tourk, an aide in his office serving as appointments secretary. At the time, she was married to Alex Tourk, who had been Newsom’s deputy chief of staff and was then managing his re-election campaign.

The affair reportedly occurred around late 2005, during Newsom’s divorce from his first wife, Kimberly Guilfoyle. Ruby disclosed the relationship during substance abuse rehabilitation, which led to her husband confronting Newsom. Alex Tourk resigned immediately, and the story broke in the media, shocking the political world.

Newsom held a press conference on February 1, 2007, where he publicly apologized, saying he was “deeply sorry” for hurting his friend Alex Tourk, his family, and friends. He described it as a mistake he would have to live with.

Key Players in the Controversy

Here’s a quick overview of the main individuals involved:

• Gavin Newsom — Then-Mayor of San Francisco (now Governor of California). Admitted to the affair and apologized publicly.
• Ruby Rippey-Tourk (now Ruby Rippey Gibney) — Newsom’s former appointments secretary and the woman at the center of the affair. She was in her mid-30s at the time and later remarried Ryan Gibney, with whom she has children.
• Alex Tourk — Newsom’s campaign manager, former deputy chief of staff, and Ruby’s husband. He resigned after the confrontation and the revelation ended their marriage.
• Kimberly Guilfoyle — Newsom’s wife at the start of his mayoral term (they divorced in 2006). The affair happened amid their separation.

This incident highlighted personal betrayals amid professional relationships and drew widespread media attention.

What Happened After the Scandal?

The affair damaged Newsom’s image temporarily but didn’t derail his career long-term. He won re-election as mayor and later became California’s Lieutenant Governor and then Governor in 2019. He’s often mentioned as a potential future presidential contender.

Ruby Rippey Gibney spoke out in 2018 during Newsom’s gubernatorial run, reflecting on how the affair wrecked her marriage. She expressed regret, thanked her current husband, and quoted Mike Tyson: “If you’re not humble, life will visit humbleness upon you.”

Alex Tourk stepped away from the spotlight after resigning. The event remains a notable chapter in Newsom’s past, occasionally resurfacing in discussions about his personal life and leadership.

Here are some key facts in a nutshell:

• Year of Affair: Around late 2005
• Public Revelation: January 31, 2007 (Tourk resignation); February 1, 2007 (Newsom apology)
• Impact on Marriage: Ended Alex and Ruby Tourk’s marriage
• Newsom’s Response: Public apology, no formal charges or legal issues
• Long-Term Effect: Newsom continued his political rise successfully

Why This Story Still Matters Today

In politics, personal scandals can fade or linger depending on context. This one from nearly two decades ago occasionally pops up in profiles of Newsom, especially amid speculation about higher office ambitions. It serves as a reminder of how private actions can intersect with public roles.

The episode also sparked conversations about workplace dynamics, power imbalances, and accountability in political circles. While Newsom has moved forward—now married to Jennifer Siebel Newsom with four children—the story of the campaign manager’s wife remains part of his backstory.

In the end, scandals like this show that even the most polished leaders face human flaws. Newsom’s ability to recover and thrive speaks to resilience in politics, but it also underscores the importance of integrity in personal and professional relationships.

Whether you’re following California politics or just curious about behind-the-scenes drama, this chapter offers insight into the complexities of power and personal choices. What do you think—does the past define a leader, or can growth move things forward?