Gavin Newsom’s chief of staff departs, former Kamala Harris aide named replacement
Nathan Barankin, a former longtime adviser to Kamala Harris, has taken over as chief of staff to Gov. Gavin Newsom, the governor’s office announced Monday.
He replaces Dana Williamson, who has served as Newsom’s top deputy since January 2023.
“I greatly appreciate Dana’s counsel and her service to the state and the people of California over the last two years,” Newsom said in a statement. “I’m honored to welcome Nathan — his leadership and vision will ensure our administration continues delivering on our promise to create a more affordable, healthy, and prosperous California.”
Barankin joined the Newsom administration as a senior adviser in October. Previously, he served in chief of staff and senior advisor roles to Kamala Harris during her time as California attorney general and U.S. senator. He advised Harris during her first presidential bid in 2019, and then spent four years as an independent political consultant.
“As I step into this role at a time of both challenge and opportunity, I am deeply humbled by the Governor’s appointment,” Barankin said. “As Chief of Staff, my focus will be on serving the people of California by advancing the Governor’s bold agenda to create jobs, ensure safe neighborhoods, and improve the health and well-being of every family in our state.”
Aides said the transition has been in the works since Barankin joined Newsom’s office earlier this fall and that his experience working for Harris would be an asset to the state as it readies for a second term fighting incoming president Donald Trump.
Barankin is married to Ann Patterson, Newsom’s cabinet secretary. The two will each report directly to the governor.
Williamson previously worked as a political strategist and as cabinet secretary for former Gov. Jerry Brown and was known for her brash and at times uncompromising approach.
Leaked emails earlier this year showed Williamson refused to negotiate with backers of tough-on-crime ballot measure Prop. 36 on a package of retail theft bills unless they pulled the ballot measure. Prop. 36 ended up passing with more than 68%.
Before deleting her X account last year, she often used the platform to direct insults at political opponents and elected officials who fell out of line.
“It’s always hard to leave this work, but in two short years, we’ve made a lasting impact,” Williamson said in a statement. “I’ve had the honor of serving under three governors and when asked what I will miss the most, my answer is always the same — the privilege of working with some of the smartest and most committed people I’ve ever known. I’m grateful for every day that I’ve had.”
This story was originally published December 16, 2024 at 6:30 AM with the headline "Gavin Newsom’s chief of staff departs, former Kamala Harris aide named replacement."
