Full Breakdown
California’s 2026 Gubernatorial Primary: A Tight Race Under the Top-Two System
6/3/2026, 8:00:26 PM
Core Contest Overview
On June 2, 2026 California held its nonpartisan “top-two” primary for governor. All candidates appeared on a single ballot; the two highest vote-getters, regardless of party, advance to the November general election. Early returns showed former Fox News host Steve Hilton (R) and former U.S. Health and Human Services secretary Xavier Becerra (D) leading, with billionaire activist Tom Steyer (D) in third.
Background & Context
The race opened after Gov. Gavin Newsom became term-limited. Roughly 60 candidates—including former mayor Matt Mahan and ex-Congresswoman Katie Porter—split the Democratic field, prompting fears that two Republicans could advance. Former Rep. Eric Swalwell withdrew in April amid sexual-assault allegations, clearing a path for Becerra’s surge.
Key Figures & Groups
- Steve Hilton – Republican, former Fox News host, endorsed by former President Donald Trump; campaigned on tax cuts, deregulation, and “change” after 16 years of Democratic control.
- Xavier Becerra – Democrat, former California attorney general and Biden-appointed HHS secretary; backed by labor unions, Latino legislative leaders, and the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee.
- Tom Steyer – Democrat, billionaire climate activist; self-funded > $200 million, positioning himself as a progressive outsider challenging corporate influence.
- Supporting groups include the California Labor Federation (for Becerra), the Trump-aligned “America First” network (for Hilton), and progressive advocacy coalitions (for Steyer).
Data & Statistics
As of the 50-55 % of ballots counted, Hilton held 27 % of the vote, Becerra 26 %, Steyer 20 %, and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco 11 % (NBC, ABC10, KCRA). Vote-counting continues because California relies heavily on mail-in ballots that can be processed up to a week after Election Day.
Why It Matters / Impact
The governor’s office controls a $300 billion state budget and sets policy on housing affordability, energy costs, and immigration enforcement—issues amplified by the nation’s highest gasoline prices and recent wildfire-driven insurance crises. The outcome also signals how California’s “jungle” primary may affect party dynamics nationally.
Official Statements & Responses
Democratic officials highlighted Becerra’s record defending workers, immigrants, and health care against federal rollbacks. Republican leaders emphasized Hilton’s pledge to cut taxes, reduce regulation, and address the “one-party rule” they claim has driven cost-of-living pressures. Both campaigns framed the race as a referendum on the state’s direction rather than personal ambition.
Criticism & Opposition
Progressives criticized Becerra’s handling of migrant-child shelters and his corporate donor ties; conservatives warned that Steyer’s self-financing could “buy” the election. Hilton’s rhetoric on climate change and public-safety policies drew pushback from environmental groups and urban officials.
On-the-Ground Reports
Los Angeles voters cited housing, gas prices, and public safety as top concerns. A Sacramento-area resident described Becerra as “honest, hardworking,” while a Glendale supporter of Hilton called him “a true conservative” seeking “real change.”
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Early vote-share figures differ slightly among outlets (e.g., NBC reports Hilton at 27 % vs. KCRA’s 28 %). The final ranking of the second-place slot remains uncertain because late-mail ballots historically favor Democrats, creating a “red mirage” that may reverse as counting proceeds.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We're not there yet, but it's looking good. It looks very much as if Californians really will have the chance to vote for change in November and take our state in a new direction.” — Steve Hilton, Republican gubernatorial candidate
- “Guess what? The underdog stayed in the fight. Like my parents, I never gave up. Never stopped putting one foot in front of the other. Never stopped believing in the beacon-like goodness of California. And thankfully, neither did you.” — Xavier Becerra, Democratic gubernatorial candidate
- “We’re going to wait until every ballot is counted. We’re going to give democracy time to work.” — Tom Steyer, Democratic gubernatorial candidate
- “Change is coming to California.” — Steve Hilton, Republican gubernatorial candidate (ABC10)
- “California needs our voices and our values. To the people and voters of California, this is your state.... We will not be bought. We will not be bullied, and we are never backing down. California, thank you very much. November, here we come,” — Xavier Becerra, Democratic gubernatorial candidate (ABC10)
- “If they choose a traditionally qualified candidate like Becerra, it indicates that Californians are content to keep governing in a similar way,” — Kimberly L Nalder, Project for an Informed Electorate director
What’s Next
County officials will continue counting mail-in ballots through early June; the Secretary of State must certify results by July 10. The two leading candidates will face off in November, with the possibility of a Democrat-Republican matchup that could reshape policy on housing, energy, and immigration in the nation’s most populous state.
