The 2026 California gubernatorial race is a wide-open contest, with Governor Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, barred from seeking re-election due to term limits. Republicans, who historically struggle to win statewide races in California, have seen two candidates—Steve Hilton and another Republican—near the top of polls after a split among Democratic voters. Hilton, a Republican, secured the endorsement of former President Donald Trump, which bolstered his support and reduced the likelihood of multiple Republicans appearing on the November ballot. Among the leading Democratic candidates are Xavier Becerra, a former secretary of health and human services, and Tom Steyer, a billionaire philanthropist. Representative Eric Swalwell, who was once a top Democratic contender, withdrew from the race following allegations of sexual assault.
According to The New York Times, the race remains highly competitive, with no clear frontrunner emerging. The split within the Democratic Party has created an unusual scenario where Republicans hold significant polling momentum, despite California’s generally liberal political landscape.