No, Gavin Newsom's father, William Newsom, did not abandon them, although his parents did separate and divorce when Gavin was young. After the divorce, William Newsom was still involved in Gavin's life, and Gavin has said he spent time with his father on weekends and summers.
•Parental separation: William Newsom and Gavin's mother, Tessa, separated when Gavin was 2 years old and divorced three years later.
•Continued involvement: Despite the separation, William Newsom remained a part of Gavin's life, with Gavin spending occasional weekends and summers with him.
•Father's influence: Gavin has spoken about his father's influence, citing his father's focus on social justice, racial justice, and the environment as a key part of his own political development.