Tight California governor's race between five leading candidates - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Seema Mehta

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The race to replace California Gov. Gavin Newsom is shaping up as one of the most competitive gubernatorial contests in recent history, with five leading candidates—three Democrats and two Republicans—statistically tied within a 4 percentage point range, according to a new poll from the Public Policy Institute of California (PPIC). As voters navigate economic challenges, affordability remains a top concern. With three months until the June primary, the race is wide open, and the outcome could significantly impact California’s political landscape. The PPIC survey reveals that conservative commentator Steve Hilton leads with 14% support among likely voters, closely followed by former U.S. Rep. Katie Porter at 13%, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco at 12%, Rep. Eric Swalwell at 11%, and hedge fund founder Tom Steyer at 10%. The tight competition highlights the uncertainty surrounding the primary, with no candidate securing a clear majority. Democrats worry that the crowded field could split their votes, potentially allowing Republicans to advance to the general election for only the second time since 2006. The race is further complicated by recent shifts in voter sentiment. While Hilton and Bianco have maintained steady support, Porter’s standing has declined due to backlash over her controversial remarks toward aides and reporters. Her subsequent apology has not fully regained lost momentum. Meanwhile, Xavier Becerra, former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary, saw a significant drop in his polling numbers as more Democrats entered the race. California voters also expressed strong preferences for Democratic candidates in other high-stakes races, such as the state’s 52 congressional

Verticals

newscalifornia

Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/26/2026