That’s quite a disturbing allegation.
Gavin Newsom has alleged that the San Francisco Chronicle’s former editor tried to obtain his hair in an attempt to clarify his parentage.
In his upcoming memoir, titled “Youth in a Hurry,” Newsom claims that Phil Bronstein, who used to be the editor-in-chief, employed questionable methods to uncover dirt about him.
“He believed that if he could get hold of that evidence, it would conclusively show that my father was Gordon Peter Getty and not William Alfred Newsom,” Newsom wrote.
Bronstein, who has a history with actress Sharon Stone, presided over the Chronicle during Newsom’s ascent in city politics. Newsom argues that Bronstein’s actions were largely aimed at undermining his reputation due to his connections with the affluent Getty family.
According to Phil Matier, a veteran political reporter in San Francisco, there wasn’t much affection between Newsom and Bronstein. He noted, “From the outset, it was a rocky relationship.”
“I can’t say what Gavin said about Phil, but it’s clear Phil had his own agenda regarding Gavin,” he added.
Newsom’s family has maintained a close relationship with the Gettys for many years. His father and Gordon Peter Getty were childhood friends, and William Alfred Newsom served as Getty’s attorney and managed the family trust.
Over the years, the Getty family has significantly contributed to Newsom’s political campaigns, facilitating his journey from local San Francisco politics to the governorship.
As Newsom spins a narrative of his tumultuous childhood and financially tough beginnings leading up to the 2028 presidential election, some critics aren’t buying it, questioning his claims of a rags-to-riches story.
Republican candidate Steve Hilton dismissed Newsom’s portrayal as “a joke,” stating, “There’s no better example of elitist privilege than Gavin Newsom. Just look at his family and their connections throughout the years. In many places, that would be dubbed aristocracy.”
