California Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom, family quarantine after exposure to coronavirus

California Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom and his family have entered quarantine after learning that several of his children were exposed to a California Highway Patrol officer who has since tested positive for the novel virus.

The governor's office said the family learned of their potential exposure Friday night and were tested Sunday morning. The tests came back negative, and they will continue periodic testing. 

The officer provides security for the state's first family. 

"We are grateful for all the officers that keep our family safe and for every frontline worker who continues to go to work during this pandemic," Newsom tweeted. 

Three of Newsom's four children attend an elementary school that resumed in-person instruction in November with increased safety protocols in place.

Last week, Newsom came under fire for attending a lavish dinner at an upscale Napa Valley restaurant on Nov. 6. Photographs of Newsom and his wife at the event raised questions about the governor's initial claim that the event was held outdoors. He has since apologized for his attendance.  

Also this weekend, the governor's recently imposed 10 p.m. curfew resulted in protests.

So-called "curfew breakers" gathered near Huntington Beach at the curfew deadline with flags, signs and anger directed at the governor. The new order will last until Dec. 21, at which point changes will be made depending on the state's cases.

Those covered under the current order, which affects 41 out of California's 58 counties, will be required to stay home from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., with exceptions for emergencies, shopping for groceries, picking up takeout or walking a dog. The 41 "purple-tiered" counties account for 94% of the state's population, nearly 40 million people.