California Governor Primary Election 2026 Candidates Emerge
The race for California's 2026 gubernatorial primary is crowded, with significant candidates emerging as Democrats and Republicans prepare for a competitive election.
With incumbent Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom term-limited and unable to seek re-election, a diverse lineup of candidates has entered the race for the 2026 California gubernatorial primary. Notable figures include two prominent Democrats, former Cabinet Secretary Xavier Becerra and billionaire Tom Steyer, along with Republican commentator Steve Hilton, who has the backing of former President Trump.
The candidate field also features several other Democrats, such as former Congresswoman Katie Porter, state Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, and San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan. Republican candidates include Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco. In this all-party primary format, the top two candidates will advance to the general election, regardless of their political affiliation.