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NewsThe GuardianMay 6, 2026United States

California Governor Candidates Debate as Primary Voting Begins

Seven leading candidates for California governor are participating in a televised debate as mail-in voting for the June 2 primary election is already underway. The race has seen significant shifts, including the withdrawal of Eric Swalwell and the rise of Xavier Becerra in recent polling.

electionsgubernatorial raceCalifornia politicscampaign financeprimary election
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Why It Matters

The outcome of the June 2 primary will determine which two candidates advance to the November general election in California, directly impacting the state's leadership and policy direction on issues like housing, wildfire response, and the budget.

Key Facts

  • The California gubernatorial primary election is scheduled for June 2.
  • California utilizes a 'jungle primary' system where the top two vote-getters advance to the general election regardless of party affiliation.
  • Tom Steyer has self-funded his campaign with over $130 million.
  • Recent polling shows Xavier Becerra and Steve Hilton tied at 18% support.
  • The number of undecided voters decreased from 24% in early April to 14%.
  • Eric Swalwell withdrew from the race following sexual assault and harassment allegations.
  • SEIU California has officially endorsed both Tom Steyer and Xavier Becerra.
  • The debate is hosted by CNN in Los Angeles.
  • Key issues in the race include immigration, wildfire response, cost of living, homelessness, insurance shortages, and the state budget shortfall.

Who's Mentioned

personChad Bianco“Riverside County Sheriff and candidate.”personTom Steyer“Billionaire climate activist and gubernatorial candidate.”dollar_amount$130m“Amount Tom Steyer has spent on his own campaign.”personEric Swalwell“Former candidate who withdrew from the race.”personSteve Hilton“Republican candidate and former Fox News host.”personAntonio Villaraigosa“Former Los Angeles mayor and candidate.”personXavier Becerra“Former HHS secretary and current gubernatorial candidate.”personMatt Mahan“Mayor of San Jose and candidate.”personKatie Porter“Former California congresswoman and candidate.”personGavin Newsom“Outgoing Democratic governor of California.”organizationSEIU California“Labor union that endorsed Steyer and Becerra.”