The California governor’s race has taken an intriguing turn as former Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra and Republican contender Steve Hilton emerge as the top candidates in the primary election. With two-thirds of the expected votes tallied, Becerra leads with approximately 27%, closely followed by Hilton at 26%. Billionaire activist Tom Steyeranother Democrat, is in third place with 21%.
The race to replace term-limited Governor Gavin Newsom has been anything but predictable. Becerra, a former California attorney general and 12-term congressman, has positioned himself as a mainstream Democrat, emphasizing his extensive government experience. Despite initially lagging in the polls, Becerra’s campaign gained momentum after former Rep. Eric Swalwell abruptly exited the race in April amid allegations of sexual assault, which he has denied.
Becerra’s Rise to the Top
Becerra’s campaign has been marked by both challenges and triumphs. He faced criticism from former Biden administration colleagues who questioned his ability to manage California’s complex bureaucracy. Additionally, he encountered negative headlines, including backlash over a local TV interview and guilty pleas from two former consultants who misappropriated campaign funds. Despite these setbacks, Becerra’s steady rise in the polls highlights his resilience and appeal to California voters.
If Becerra secures the lone Democratic spot in the general election, he will be the heavy favorite to become the next governor of California. His campaign has focused on freezing insurance and utility rates, a promise that resonates with many voters in the state.
Hilton’s Unconventional Campaign
Steve Hilton, a former Fox News host and aide to ex-UK Prime Minister David Cameronhas brought an unconventional approach to the race. Born in the UK and naturalized as a U.S. citizen in 2026, Hilton has campaigned on a platform of tax cuts, reducing regulatory red tape for businesses, and increasing homeownership. His campaign has been bolstered by an endorsement from former President Donald Trumpwhich has helped consolidate the Republican vote.
Hilton’s campaign style, often characterized by his casual attire and barefoot appearances, has drawn attention and sparked discussions about his unique approach to politics. He has vowed to disrupt the system and address critical issues such as homelessness and immigration enforcement, positioning himself as a reformer in a state where Democratic voters outnumber Republicans by roughly two-to-one.
The Impact of California’s Primary System
California’s unique primary system, known as the jungle primaryallows all candidates to run on the same ballot, with the top two vote-getters advancing to the general election regardless of party. This system has led to a crowded field of candidates and intense competition among Democrats. The absence of a clear front-runner early in the campaign resulted in a fragmented Democratic vote, raising concerns that two Republicans could advance to the general election.
The primary election has also been marked by record-breaking ad spending, with billionaire climate activist Tom Steyer dumping nearly $200 million of his own money into his campaign. The high-stakes race has drawn national attention and highlighted the political dynamics of a state that has been at the forefront of some of America’s most contentious political battles.
As the counting of mail-in ballots continues, California voters await the final results of a primary election that has been anything but straightforward. The outcome will not only shape the future of the Golden State but also provide insights into the political landscape of a state where Democrats have dominated statewide elections for two decades.
