What to Expect From the California Governor Race in 2026?
More than 10 candidates compete in a low-recognition, contentious race focused on housing and affordability with 44% of voters undecided, according to recent polls.
- The 2026 California governor's race remains unexpectedly wide open after Stephen Cloobeck's exit on Monday, with at least 10 candidates and one poll released last month finding 44% of voters had no preference.
- Other Democrats are stressing biographies and government experience to make California more affordable while billionaire investor and climate activist Tom Steyer announced last month he is entering the race.
- Last month, prosecutors allege $20 was diverted from a dormant campaign account involving Dana Williamson and Sean McCluskie, potentially tainting Becerra's campaign.
- Those viral videos left Katie Porter, former Orange County representative, essentially tied with Chad Bianco, Riverside County Sheriff, in polls, highlighting a competitive matchup after October incidents.
- Tony Thurmond, State Superintendent of Public Instruction, emphasizes his social worker background while one candidate has proposed building two million housing units on surplus state land.
20 Articles
20 Articles
What to expect from the California governor race in 2026?
The special election on redistricting has been certified. The closely watched decisions from former Vice President Kamala Harris and U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla have been made. Does that mean the race for California’s next governor — with its primary just six months away — is ready to heat up? It’s been a rather lackluster campaign thus far. One that, while it certainly is not wanting for candidates, has lacked a certain excitement. That’s in part du…
Here’s Who’s Running for California Governor in 2026…So Far - Sonoma Valley Sun
The 2026 California gubernatorial election will take place on November 3, 2026, to elect the governor of California. The nonpartisan top-two primary election will take place on June 2, 2026. Incumbent Democratic governor Gavin Newsom is term-limited and ineligible for election to a third term. As of November 2025, over two dozen candidates have declared campaigns, and the field is expected to grow. Republicans
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