California voters are preparing for one of the most competitive gubernatorial primaries in state history as the race to succeed Governor Gavin Newsom, who is term‑limited, heads toward the June 2, 2026 top‑two primary. More than 60 candidates qualified for the ballot, according to NBC Los Angeles and Ballotpedia, reflecting unusually high interest in leading the nation’s most populous state.
Under California’s top‑two system, only the two highest vote‑getters — regardless of party — advance to the November general election, raising concerns among Democratic strategists about vote‑splitting in a crowded field.
A Large Field With a Core Group of Major Contenders
Although dozens of candidates are running, media coverage and polling consistently highlight a smaller group of prominent contenders.
Leading Democrats
Multiple outlets — including CalMatters, AP News, NBC Los Angeles, and CNN — identify the following as the major Democratic candidates:
- Xavier Becerra — former U.S. Health and Human Services secretary, former California attorney general, former member of Congress
- Katie Porter — former Orange County congressmember
- Matt Mahan — mayor of San Jose
- Tom Steyer — businessman and environmental advocate
- Antonio Villaraigosa — former mayor of Los Angeles
- Tony Thurmond — California superintendent of public instruction
- Betty Yee — former California state controller
Leading Republicans
Consistently identified by AP News, NBC Los Angeles, and CalMatters:
- Chad Bianco — Riverside County sheriff
- Steve Hilton — conservative commentator, endorsed by former President Donald Trump
Because Democrats are spread across many candidates while Republicans are consolidating behind two, analysts warn of a possible Democratic shutout if votes split widely.
Debates Highlight Divisions and Momentum Shifts
NBC Los Angeles and CNN both hosted major debates featuring the same seven top‑polling candidates:
Becerra, Bianco, Hilton, Mahan, Porter, Steyer, and Villaraigosa
Coverage from both outlets notes:
- Xavier Becerra became a central target, especially after Rep. Eric Swalwell exited the race following misconduct allegations. CNN described Becerra as the “biggest target of the night.”
- Matt Mahan criticized Becerra as a “career politician,” positioning himself as a reform‑minded Democrat.
- Tom Steyer challenged Becerra over accepting contributions from Chevron.
- Chad Bianco emphasized eliminating the state income tax and gas tax, expanding oil production, and rolling back environmental regulations.
- Steve Hilton, backed by Trump, framed himself as an outsider challenging California’s political establishment.
Key Issues Driving the Campaign
Affordability & Cost of Living
A dominant theme across all candidates, with proposals ranging from emergency freezes on utility and insurance rates (Becerra) to eliminating major taxes (Bianco).
Climate & Energy Policy
Democrats generally support California’s climate goals, though Becerra has signaled openness to adjusting timelines to keep fuel affordable.
Republicans call for expanded oil and gas production and regulatory rollbacks.
Public Safety
Bianco emphasizes law‑enforcement experience and tougher policies.
Democrats focus on statewide reforms and community‑based approaches.
Housing & Homelessness
All major candidates cite housing affordability as a top priority, with differing approaches on regulation, zoning, and state intervention.
Election Timeline
- Ballots mailed: Early May 2026
- Primary election: June 2, 2026
- Polls open: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Top‑two finishers advance to November