California’s 2026 gubernatorial race is wide open. A mix of former members of Congress, local leaders, business figures, and conservative challengers are competing to lead the nation’s most populous state. Gavin Newsom cannot run again due to term limits, setting up a competitive primary.
Here’s a quick look at ten of the candidates currently in the race and their strongest political attributes.
1. Katie Porter (Democrat)
Strong suit: Consumer watchdog reputation
The former Orange County congresswoman became famous for grilling corporate executives using a whiteboard during congressional hearings. Her brand centers on fighting corporate power and advocating for middle-class consumers.
2. Xavier Becerra (Democrat)
Strong suit: Deep government experience
Becerra served as California’s attorney general and later as U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services. His campaign focuses on tackling affordability issues such as healthcare and housing.
3. Antonio Villaraigosa (Democrat)
Strong suit: Big-city leadership
The former mayor of Los Angeles has decades of political experience and strong ties to labor groups. His campaign emphasizes infrastructure, economic growth, and working-class voters.
4. Eric Swalwell (Democrat)
Strong suit: National profile
The Bay Area congressman gained national attention during congressional investigations and a brief presidential run. He campaigns as a high-energy communicator focused on public safety and economic opportunity.
5. Tom Steyer (Democrat)
Strong suit: Climate leadership and personal wealth
The billionaire investor and former presidential candidate is a major climate activist. His campaign emphasizes lowering energy costs while expanding clean energy investments.
6. Tony Thurmond (Democrat)
Strong suit: Education policy expertise
Thurmond oversees California’s public school system and is running on improving education outcomes, expanding childcare access, and addressing the state’s affordability crisis.
7. Betty Yee (Democrat)
Strong suit: Budget and financial experience
The former state controller built her reputation managing California’s finances and advocating fiscal accountability. Her campaign highlights economic fairness and responsible budgeting.
8. Matt Mahan (Democrat)
Strong suit: Tech-friendly moderate approach
The mayor of San Jose positions himself as a pragmatic problem-solver focused on homelessness, crime reduction, and economic growth in Silicon Valley.
9. Chad Bianco (Republican)
Strong suit: Law-and-order message
The Riverside County sheriff has built support among conservative voters by emphasizing tougher crime policies and criticism of California’s current leadership.
10. Steve Hilton (Republican)
Strong suit: Outsider reform message
The former adviser to a British prime minister and television commentator campaigns as a political outsider promising to cut regulations and improve California’s business climate.
A Wide-Open Race
With such a crowded field, analysts say the race could remain unpredictable for months. California’s “top-two” primary system means the two candidates with the most votes — regardless of party — advance to the general election.
That dynamic could reshape the campaign and create surprising matchups in November.
“With no incumbent and a crowded field, California voters may see one of the most unpredictable governor races in decades.”
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