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Tom Steyer Faces Backlash Over Private Prison Investments

4/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

Tom Steyer, a billionaire and Democratic candidate for California governor, faces scrutiny over past investments in private prisons housing undocumented immigrants.
Critics question his progressive credentials as he has donated nearly $112 million to his campaign and aired over 5,000 ads.
Steyer states he has divested from controversial investments after acknowledging mistakes with his former hedge fund Farallon.
Protests and political attacks continue as the June 2 primary approaches.

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Story summary

Tom Steyer, a billionaire and Democratic candidate for California governor, faces scrutiny over past investments in private prisons housing undocumented immigrants.
Critics question his progressive credentials as he has donated nearly $112 million to his campaign and aired over 5,000 ads.
Steyer states he has divested from controversial investments after acknowledging mistakes with his former hedge fund Farallon.
Protests and political attacks continue as the June 2 primary approaches.