The unexpected end of Rep. Eric Swalwell’s campaign for California governor has thrown the race wide open, just as mail-in voting nears commencement. With no Democratic candidate clearly in the lead, the party faces concerns about being potentially excluded from the November general election.
Despite their longstanding control of the state, Democrats are worried that the state’s top-two primary system, which advances only the two candidates with the most votes regardless of party, might lead to a scenario where two Republicans advance. This risk is heightened by the large number of Democratic contenders potentially splitting the vote.
The contest to succeed outgoing California Gov. Gavin Newsom is becoming increasingly chaotic, with debates over eligibility criteria and identity politics taking center stage.
Chad Bianco, Republican
Chad Bianco, a Republican sheriff from Riverside County, is known for his staunch support of former President Donald Trump. With over three decades in law enforcement, Bianco recently made headlines for confiscating over half a million ballots from a special election due to alleged discrepancies, although the state Supreme Court has halted this action amid legal challenges.
Steve Hilton, Republican
Steve Hilton, a former Fox News commentator and adviser to ex-UK Prime Minister David Cameron, has received an endorsement from Trump, who described him as “a truly fine man.” Despite this, the state Republican Party has not endorsed any candidate for governor.
Katie Porter, Democrat
Katie Porter, recognized for her use of a whiteboard to question CEOs in Congress, first entered the national stage by winning a traditionally Republican seat in Orange County in 2018. Porter has faced criticism for her interaction with media and treatment of staff. She’s one of the few prominent women in the race, in a state that has never elected a female governor.
Tom Steyer, Democrat
Billionaire Tom Steyer, who turned to activism after a career in hedge funds, is largely financing his gubernatorial campaign himself. His past investments in coal mining and private prisons have drawn scrutiny, complicating his progressive platform.
Matt Mahan, Democrat
San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan, who entered the race in January, portrays himself as a moderate Democrat. Backed by Silicon Valley and business leaders, Mahan is a recent entrant into politics, having been elected to the city council in 2020 and as mayor in 2022.
Betty Yee, Democrat
Former state controller Betty Yee, who also held a leadership role in the state Democratic Party, has struggled to gain traction despite her extensive experience managing state finances. She aims to establish herself as a leading progressive voice.
Xavier Becerra, Democrat
Xavier Becerra, once President Biden’s chief health official and California’s attorney general, brings over two decades of congressional experience. However, his campaign has been hampered by the indictment of his former chief of staff on corruption charges.
Antonio Villaraigosa, Democrat
Antonio Villaraigosa, the first Latino mayor of Los Angeles in over a century, previously lost a gubernatorial bid against Newsom in 2018. His political experience includes serving as Assembly speaker in the state Legislature.
Tony Thurmond, Democrat
As the state’s leading education official, Tony Thurmond has been vocal in opposing policies requiring school staff to inform parents of a child’s gender identity changes. His political career includes serving in the state Legislature.
