2026 California Governor Race: Key Developments and Candidates

Overview of the 2026 California Gubernatorial Primary

California’s 2026 governor’s race is an open-seat contest following term limits on Gov. Gavin Newsom. The primary was held June 2, 2026, under the state’s “jungle” primary system, which places all candidates on one ballot regardless of party. Ten candidates filed—eight Democrats and two Republicans—to lead a state with a $300 billion budget and the nation’s largest population Source 2.

Leading Candidates After the Primary

Democratic Frontrunners

• Xavier Becerra advanced to the general election, positioning himself as an experienced leader Source 6.
• Tom Steyer led early polls but later trailed in primary results Source 3.

Republican Contender

• Steve Hilton secured second place in the primary and advanced to November Source 3.

Polling Trends and Shifts

A May 30, 2026, NBC Los Angeles poll showed Becerra and Steyer leading Hilton and Chad Bianco, reflecting a fluid race with rapid changes in frontrunner status Source 5.

Additional Notable Candidates

Prominent names included Katie Porter, Antonio Villaraigosa, and Chad Bianco. In total, 61 candidates appeared on the primary ballot Source 4 Source 8.

Path to the General Election

Under the jungle primary, the top two vote-getters advance. Democrat Xavier Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton emerged as the November matchup. Advancing past the primary proved more competitive than the general election itself Source 7.

FAQ

Who won the 2026 California governor primary?
Democrat Xavier Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton advanced to the general election Source 1.

How many candidates ran in the 2026 California governor race?
Sixty-one candidates appeared on the June 2026 primary ballot Source 4.

What is California’s “jungle” primary system?
All candidates compete on one ballot; the top two advance to the general election Source 9.

Which Democrat is favored to win the governorship?
Xavier Becerra is the Democratic nominee heading into the November general election Source 6.

Why is the 2026 governor’s race significant?
The winner will manage a $300 billion budget and lead the most populous state in the U.S. Source 4.

Did any Republican candidates advance?
Yes, Steve Hilton finished second in the primary and will face Xavier Becerra in November Source 3.