Story perspectives

32% Undecided as CTA Backs Barrera; Newsom Shifts Superintendent Powers

5/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

Thirty-two percent of voters remain undecided before the June 2 primary for California’s superintendent of public instruction.
The California Teachers Association endorses San Diego Unified board member Richard Barrera, noting that twelve candidates poll below 10% and the superintendent’s impact on education workers.
Gov. Gavin Newsom’s budget would shift superintendent powers to the State Board of Education while charter schools have faded as focus shifts to teacher shortages and stagnant performance.

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Story summary

Thirty-two percent of voters remain undecided before the June 2 primary for California’s superintendent of public instruction.
The California Teachers Association endorses San Diego Unified board member Richard Barrera, noting that twelve candidates poll below 10% and the superintendent’s impact on education workers.
Gov. Gavin Newsom’s budget would shift superintendent powers to the State Board of Education while charter schools have faded as focus shifts to teacher shortages and stagnant performance.