Meet the Candidates for California Governor: What You Need to Know
Republican Candidates Gain Traction in California’s Gubernatorial Race
As California prepares for the 2026 gubernatorial election, over 60 individuals have declared their candidacy, aiming to succeed Governor Gavin Newsom, who is set to exit following his second and final term. Among these contenders, seven candidates participated in the recent NBC4 and Telemundo 52 California Gubernatorial and Los Angeles Mayoral Debate on May 6, 2026.
Notably, the election is shaping up to be an unprecedented scenario for California, traditionally a deep-blue state. Two Republican candidates, both aligned with former President Donald Trump, are currently leading in the polls. This shift follows a sexual misconduct scandal involving Representative Eric Swalwell, a key Democratic frontrunner, which has altered the dynamics of the race.
Among the prominent candidates is Xavier Becerra, a seasoned public servant who has made history as the first Latino Health Secretary and the first Attorney General of California.
Chad Bianco, the Riverside County sheriff since 2018, has emerged as a vocal critic of the state’s Democratic leadership, particularly opposing the "defund the police" movement, which he claims has compromised public safety in California.
Another candidate, Steve Hilton, a conservative political strategist and former Fox News host, is causing concern among Democratic officials as he leads in several polls. His popularity raises the prospect of a Republican governor in a state that has consistently leaned Democratic.
Matt Mahan, the current mayor of San Jose, is campaigning on a moderate platform, leveraging his local popularity to appeal to voters across California.
Katie Porter, a former Congresswoman from Orange County, shifts her focus from a 2024 U.S. Senate bid, in which she faced defeat, to the governorship of California, seeking to regain political momentum.
Tom Steyer, a billionaire and environmental activist, is leveraging significant personal funds for his campaign, determined to solidify his presence in the race through extensive advertising.
Lastly, Antonio Villaraigosa, former mayor of Los Angeles, is making another run for the governor’s office after finishing third in the primary in 2018. He positions himself as a pragmatic problem solver, drawing on his experience in both the State Assembly and as the mayor of Los Angeles.
The unfolding gubernatorial race in California is setting the stage for a potentially competitive contest unlike any seen in recent history, signaling shifting tides within the state’s political landscape.
