California governor race intensifies as field expands to 10 candidates

The California governor race is gaining momentum, with 10 contenders already in the running ahead of the June 2026 primary and November general election. With Governor Gavin Newsom term-limited, the contest is wide open—and highly competitive.

The race escalated after former Vice President Kamala Harris announced on July 30 that she would not run. Her decision has triggered a flurry of activity among prominent Democratic figures.

Harris exit opens up a crowded Democratic field

Leading the Democratic field is Xavier Becerra, 67, former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services and California Attorney General, who declared his candidacy in April. Becerra is highlighting his legal battles against the Trump administration and pledging to “rebuild the California Dream.”

Other major Democratic contenders include:

• Antonio Villaraigosa, former Los Angeles mayor

• Eleni Kounalakis, current lieutenant governor

• Tony Thurmond, state superintendent of public instruction

• Katie Porter, former U.S. representative

• Toni Atkins, former state senate president pro tempore

• Betty Yee, state controller

• Stephen Cloobeck, real estate developer

Billionaire Rick Caruso, who ran for Los Angeles mayor in 2022, is also considered a possible candidate, though he has not announced his intentions.

The Democratic race includes several candidates who could make history. Becerra or Villaraigosa could become California’s first Latino governor. Atkins would be the first openly LGBTQ governor in state history. Porter, known for her tough questioning in congressional hearings and frequent TV appearances, has strong name recognition. Kounalakis has the backing of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

Despite shared party affiliation, ideological and strategic differences among the candidates could lead to a contentious primary. Politico described the current dynamic as “a Democratic brawl,” noting that Harris’s exit has intensified internal rivalries.

GOP field takes shape with populist rhetoric

On the Republican side, Chad Bianco, former sheriff of Riverside County, and Steve Hilton, former Fox News host, have declared their candidacies. Former U.S. ambassador to Germany Richard Grenell is also considered a possible entrant.

Bianco’s campaign reported raising over $1.6 million during the first fundraising period, claiming support from grassroots donors, law enforcement, teachers, and labor groups. His platform targets high taxes, crime rates, housing costs, and criminal justice reform, which he argues have eroded California’s quality of life.

A recent poll by the Public Policy Institute of California found that 60% of voters believe the state is on the wrong track. According to a New York Times report, the next governor will inherit a multi-billion-dollar budget deficit, ongoing disputes over undocumented immigration, backlash against progressive education policies, and strained relations with the White House.

The California gubernatorial primary will be held in June 2026. Under state election rules, the top two vote-getters—regardless of party—will advance to the general election in November.

BY HANKIL KANG  [kang.hankil@koreadaily.com]