The race for California governor is unusually crowded and competitive, and voters are weighing multiple major names as the primary approaches. With several well-known figures running and no clear dominant candidate, understanding the mechanics of the open primary, who is leading in the polls, and practical voting deadlines can help ensure your vote matters.
This article explains the main contenders, the structure of California’s top-two primary, how to get reliable information about candidates, and the most important steps to take if you plan to vote by mail or in person.
Who is running and which names are rising
California’s gubernatorial primary includes a wide array of candidates from across the political spectrum. Among the most visible are Xavier Becerra (Democrat), former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services and former California attorney general; Steve Hilton (Republican), who previously hosted programs on Fox News and advised former British Prime Minister David Cameron; and Tom Steyer (Democrat), a businessman and former presidential candidate. Other notable entries include Chad Bianco (Republican), the Riverside County sheriff; Matt Mahan (Democrat), mayor of San José; Katie Porter (Democrat), former U.S. representative from Orange County; Tony Thurmond (Democrat), state superintendent; and Antonio Villaraigosa (Democrat), former Los Angeles mayor.
Because no single figure consolidated broad support after prominent Democrats such as former Vice President Kamala Harris and Senator Alex Padilla opted not to run, the field remained broad. The withdrawal of former Representative Eric Swalwell amid allegations also reshaped the dynamics, leaving several major names competing for the top two spots.
What the polls show
Recent surveys indicate a close contest. One poll showed Hilton and Becerra leading with about 22% and 21% respectively, and Steyer around 15%. A separate poll published on May 27 reported similar patterns, with slight differences in first- and second-place margins. The spread of support across many candidates means the final two advancing to the general election could come from the same party or be split by party lines.
Understanding California’s open primary system
California uses a top-two primary, created when voters approved Proposition 14 in 2010. Under this system, all candidates compete on the same ballot and the two candidates with the most votes move on to the general election, regardless of party. Advocates say this design encourages broader appeal and reduces partisan extremism; critics argue it can limit voter choice in November and sometimes produces two candidates from the same party.
In a crowded field, the top-two rule can produce unpredictable matchups. Because party affiliation does not guarantee advancement, candidates must seek support beyond their base, and small shifts in turnout can change which two candidates advance.
How this affects strategy
Candidates are tailoring messages to reach independent voters and moderates, while also working to solidify their party bases. In practice, that means campaigns spend resources across the state and focus on early voting outreach, mail ballot return, and dropbox locations to build reliable voter contact lists.
Practical voting information and deadlines
If you received a ballot but have not returned it, act now. Mail-in ballots must bear the postmark of election day or earlier and must be received by election offices within seven days after election day to be counted. For voters who want to avoid postal delays, hand-delivery to an official ballot dropbox or voting center is recommended. Election day hours for in-person voting generally run from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
To maximize the chance your ballot is counted, election officials recommend mailing it early or dropping it off at an official location before the final days. Specifically, if you plan to mail your ballot, try to post it with enough lead time so it is clearly postmarked by election day; some local guidance suggested aiming to send ballots by Thursday before election week or at least five days before June 2 to reduce risk of rejection. If you must mail very close to the deadline, request a manual postmark from your local post office.
Where to find more information
Voters can consult nonpartisan voter guides and local county election websites for candidate statements, polling place locations, and ballot dropbox maps. Many outlets publish side-by-side comparisons of candidates on topics such as housing, healthcare, public safety, and education. Reviewing these materials helps voters make informed choices in a crowded field.
Other statewide races and boards to watch
Beyond the governor’s race, the primary lists several statewide offices including superintendent of public instruction, lieutenant governor, controller, secretary of state, treasurer, and insurance commissioner. There is also notable attention on the Board of Equalization, a historically elected tax board created in 1879 that still oversees some tax functions and has been a launching pad for other political careers. This year’s contests for that board are competitive, with multiple serving state legislators running.
Take time to review candidates for these offices as well, since primary results will shape the broader political landscape going into the general election.
Voting early and staying informed are the best ways to ensure your voice is counted in a primary that could produce unexpected outcomes. Find trusted voter guides, check your county election site for dropbox and polling locations, and plan how you will return your ballot to avoid last-minute issues.
Key terms: open primary, top-two primary, mail-in ballot, ballot dropbox.