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Tom Steyer Leads California Governor Race After Swalwell Exit

4/17/2026

27 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Steyer Surges Ahead

Tom Steyer, billionaire donor, rose as a leading candidate in California's governor race after U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) exited amid sexual misconduct allegations.
A poll shows Steyer at 21% among likely voters, ahead of Republican Steve Hilton at 18%.
Steyer has invested more than $120 million to dominate advertising.
The California Teachers Association endorsed Tom Steyer.

History

Historical Context

The 2018 California gubernatorial election, held on November 6, saw Lieutenant Governor Gavin Newsom win with 62% of the vote, marking the largest margin since 1950. The election highlighted the influence of money in politics, exemplified by billionaire Tom Steyer's $120 million campaign spending, and underscored the ongoing tension between political integrity and financial power in California's electoral landscape.

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Steyer Surges Ahead

Tom Steyer, billionaire donor, rose as a leading candidate in California's governor race after U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) exited amid sexual misconduct allegations.
A poll shows Steyer at 21% among likely voters, ahead of Republican Steve Hilton at 18%.
Steyer has invested more than $120 million to dominate advertising.
The California Teachers Association endorsed Tom Steyer.

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