Nathan Barankin appointed chief of staff by Governor Gavin Newsom

Governor Gavin Newsome | Twitter Website

Governor Gavin Newsom has announced Nathan Barankin as his new Chief of Staff. Barankin, who previously served as a Senior Advisor to the Governor, brings decades of experience in government leadership.

"As I step into this role at a time of both challenge and opportunity, I am deeply humbled by the Governor’s appointment," said Nathan Barankin. "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."

Barankin's career includes roles such as Senior Advisor to Kamala Harris during her 2020 presidential campaign and Chief of Staff during her tenure as United States Senator and California Attorney General. He was also her Chief Deputy Attorney General. His contributions were significant in areas like holding Wall Street accountable after the mortgage crisis and reforming health care, criminal justice, and immigration.

He has held senior positions in California state government including Director of Communications for former Senate President Pro Tem Darrell Steinberg. Additionally, he served in the Attorney General’s Office under Bill Lockyer and then-Attorney General Jerry Brown.

The announcement follows outgoing Chief of Staff Dana Williamson's departure after nearly two years. Both Barankin and Cabinet Secretary Ann Patterson will report directly to Governor Newsom.

Barankin is based in Sacramento and has been with the Office of the Governor since 2024 as a Senior Advisor. He was President of Oak Tree Strategies, Inc., from 2020 to 2024. Prior roles include being Senior Advisor at Kamala Harris for President in 2019 and Chief of Staff to Senator Kamala Harris from 2017 to 2019. His academic background includes a Juris Doctor degree from McGeorge School of Law and a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from UC Davis. This position does not require Senate confirmation with compensation set at $235,344 per year.