California Governor Gavin Newsom is facing criticism following revelations that he privately financed a bronze bust of himself, now displayed in San Francisco’s City Hall. The sculpture, intended to commemorate his tenure as mayor, has ignited debates about political vanity and transparency.
While such tributes are customary for former mayors, the disclosure that Newsom personally funded the nearly $100,000 project has raised eyebrows.
The bronze bust, created by artist Bruce Wolfe, sits on a black granite pedestal and features a plaque inscribed with the quote: “If you distill the essence of everything, what life is about, every single one of us is give a short moment in time on this planet and we all have one universal need and desire, and that is to love and be loved.”
Social media platforms have been abuzz with reactions, with some labeling the move as egotistical. Breitbart News highlighted that “Gavin Newsom secretly paid for his own monument inside San Francisco’s City Hall, while pretending to be a bashful recipient of generosity from strangers”
Financial records indicate that three private entities contributed to a nonprofit specifically designated for the “Mayoral Bust at San Francisco City Hall.” Among these were Balboa Cafe Partners and PlumpJack Management Group—companies owned by Newsom—which together donated $10,000. The remaining funds came from undisclosed sources, totaling $97,000 for the project.
Newsom initially downplayed his involvement, expressing discomfort with the statue but not disclosing its funding origins. “I don’t want to call it embarrassing, but it’s a strange thing,” he told SFGATE during its construction.
He went on to add, “I’m just awkward about it. But now the word is out.” At the time, reports vaguely stated that “Newsom supporters” had funded the bust through private contributions.
This revelation follows previous controversies regarding behested payments—a practice where politicians direct private donations to specific causes. Newsom has previously funneled such payments toward projects run by his wife, Jennifer Siebel Newsom, raising questions about the ethical boundaries of political fundraising.
