Story perspectives

California Gubernatorial Race: Two Republicans, Divided Democrats

3/31/2026

Summary

Story summary

The California gubernatorial election may feature two Republican candidates, Steve Hilton and Chad Bianco, due to a nonpartisan primary system.
This situation stems from a divided Democratic field, with candidates like Eric Swalwell and Katie Porter failing to consolidate support.
Democratic leaders, including Rusty Hicks, have called for lower-polling candidates to withdraw, but none have complied.
A planned debate was canceled amid accusations of racial exclusion, as only white candidates qualified.
Without a unified Democratic candidate, the party risks losing the governorship in a state that opposed Trump by over 20 points in 2024.

1 of 1

Story summary

The California gubernatorial election may feature two Republican candidates, Steve Hilton and Chad Bianco, due to a nonpartisan primary system.
This situation stems from a divided Democratic field, with candidates like Eric Swalwell and Katie Porter failing to consolidate support.
Democratic leaders, including Rusty Hicks, have called for lower-polling candidates to withdraw, but none have complied.
A planned debate was canceled amid accusations of racial exclusion, as only white candidates qualified.
Without a unified Democratic candidate, the party risks losing the governorship in a state that opposed Trump by over 20 points in 2024.