California Governor Newsom Spotted Partying with Sports Exec at Super Bowl Bash

Newsom seen cozying up with Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin and other celebrities ahead of the big game

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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California Governor Gavin Newsom was spotted getting cozy with Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin and other A-list celebrities at a star-studded Super Bowl party in San Francisco on the eve of the big game. Newsom has been seen attending multiple parties and events throughout Super Bowl weekend, leading to speculation about his political ambitions.

Why it matters

Newsom's high-profile partying during Super Bowl weekend has raised eyebrows, with some questioning whether the governor is more focused on enjoying the festivities than governing the state. As a potential 2024 presidential contender, Newsom's behavior has become a subject of intense media scrutiny.

The details

In a video captured by the New York Post, Newsom was seen nearly "bro-hugging" Rubin as the two leaned in for an intimate chat. Rubin was also overheard telling the governor how to gain access to the private VIP area. Newsom was also spotted dancing to performances by Travis Scott, 21 Savage, Ashanti, and Cardi B, and chatting with celebrities like Teyana Taylor and Gayle King.

  • On Saturday, Newsom was seen at Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin's Super Bowl party in San Francisco.
  • Two nights earlier, on Thursday, Newsom attended a party at Rao's pop-up event where he reportedly ducked reporters.
  • Also on Thursday, Newsom dropped in on a party hosted by former NFL running back and podcast co-host Marshawn Lynch.

The players

Gavin Newsom

The current governor of California, who has been the subject of speculation about his potential presidential ambitions.

Michael Rubin

The CEO of Fanatics, a sports apparel company, who hosted the Super Bowl party where Newsom was spotted.

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What’s next

Newsom has not yet announced any plans to run for president, but his high-profile partying during Super Bowl weekend has fueled speculation about his political ambitions. It remains to be seen whether his behavior will have any impact on his standing as a potential 2024 contender.

The takeaway

Governor Newsom's partying during Super Bowl weekend has raised questions about his priorities and whether he is more focused on enjoying the festivities than governing the state of California. As a potential presidential contender, Newsom's behavior has become a subject of intense media scrutiny, and it remains to be seen how it will impact his political future.