Conservatives Surge in California Gubernatorial Primary Amid Leftist Disarray as Ballots Are Tallied
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Early results from California's gubernatorial primary show Republican Steve Hilton in a strong position against divided Democrats Xavier Becerra and Tom Steyer, with many ballots still uncounted.
The California gubernatorial primary remains highly competitive as early results reveal Republican Steve Hilton making significant gains against Democrats Xavier Becerra and Tom Steyer. Hilton’s campaign, representing a much-needed alternative to the failed liberal policies that have plagued California, continues to energize voters frustrated by years of Democratic mismanagement. As ballots are still being counted, Democratic candidates Matt Mahan and Antonio Villaraigosa quickly conceded, acknowledging the lack of enthusiasm for establishment Democrats amid widespread dissatisfaction over skyrocketing housing costs and rampant homelessness—problems that have only worsened under progressive leadership.
The chaotic nature of this primary, with a staggering 61 candidates on the ballot—including two who had already dropped out and one desperate enough to change his name to Barack Obama—exposes the dysfunction and lack of seriousness among California’s political left. The state’s jungle primary system, which allows the top two candidates to advance regardless of party, has only further fragmented the left, making it clear that Democrats are unable to unite behind a coherent vision for California’s future.
With career politicians largely avoiding the race, voters are signaling their desire for genuine change and a break from the entrenched political class. The sudden withdrawal of Eric Swalwell, following credible allegations of misconduct, further discredited the Democratic establishment and allowed Becerra to try to salvage the party’s reputation, though many remain unconvinced of his ability to govern effectively.
In Los Angeles, incumbent mayor Karen Bass managed to advance to the general election, but her popularity has plummeted after a series of blunders, most notably her mishandling of the 2025 wildfires. She now faces strong opposition from outsider Spencer Pratt and former ally Nithya Raman, as voters across the state demand accountability and a return to common-sense governance. As ballot counting proceeds, Californians are clearly seeking a new direction after years of failed left-wing policies.