California is one of the most influential states in the country, and the position of governor is one of the most powerful offices in California’s government. The governor helps shape state policies, signs or vetoes legislation, appoints judges and members of state boards, manages the state budget, and responds to emergencies such as the wildfires California faces almost every year. The governor also serves as the head of California’s executive branch and commander-in-chief of the California National Guard.
California’s 2026 governor race is gaining major attention because Governor Gavin Newsom cannot run again due to term limits. This is the first truly open race for governor in decades, with no incumbent on the ballot. California also uses a “top-two” primary system, meaning the two candidates with the most votes move on to the November general election, regardless of political party.
There are currently several major candidates in the race, including Xavier Becerra [D], Chad Bianco [R], Steve Hilton [R], Matt Mahan [D], Katie Porter [D], Tom Steyer [D], Tony Thurmond [D], and Antonio Villaraigosa [D]. Each candidate has promised different plans and policies if elected governor.
Xavier Becerra previously served as California’s Attorney General and later as the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, giving him experience in both state and national government, especially in healthcare policy. His campaign builds on this background by focusing heavily on expanding healthcare access (Medicare for All) and regulating major industries.
Chad Bianco is the sheriff of Riverside County and is known for his background in law enforcement, which influences his focus on crime and public safety issues. His campaign centers on stricter enforcement policies and limiting government overreach.
Steve Hilton is a former policy advisor in the United Kingdom and a political commentator, bringing an outsider perspective and media background into the race. His campaign emphasizes economic reform, reducing taxes, and changing the current political structure in California by removing the Democratic Party’s long control over the state’s politics.
Matt Mahan is the mayor of San Jose and has focused on local issues such as homelessness, housing shortages, and city-level economic policies. His campaign reflects this by promoting practical solutions to affordability and urban challenges, like reducing taxes on housing and gasoline to make California more affordable.
Katie Porter previously served as a U.S. Representative and is known for focusing on consumer protection and accountability in government and business. She promises tuition-free college, free childcare, and a single-payer health care system to help working families
Tom Steyer is a billionaire businessman and environmental activist who has emphasized climate policy and large-scale economic reforms. His campaign focuses on renewable energy, reducing utility costs, and major housing expansion. He has proposed cutting electricity bills by 25%, building one million homes within four years, and abolishing ICE detention centers in the state.
Tony Thurmond currently serves as California’s Superintendent of Public Instruction and has a background in education policy and public service. His campaign prioritizes education funding, student support programs, and reducing inequality through public services.
Antonio Villaraigosa is a former mayor of Los Angeles with experience in both city and state politics, particularly in areas like transportation and housing. His campaign highlights housing access, infrastructure improvements, and immigration-related oversight.
With many candidates in the race and voters divided among Democrats and Republicans, the election could become one of the most competitive California governor races in recent years. Political analysts have noted that the crowded Democratic field could even allow two Republican candidates to advance to the general election under California’s top-two primary system.
Those who are 18 years old or older should consider voting, because every vote can influence who becomes California’s next governor. Remember to do your research! Voting ends June 2nd.
