As Governor Gavin Newsom reaches his term limit, the California governor’s seat is open for an intense contest between Democrats and Republicans. This race not only seeks a new governor but might reshape the state’s political history, potentially becoming the first time a woman or another person of color assumes the office.
Competition for Success
The race has gained significant attention due to a career-ending scandal and unexpected rise of a long-shot candidate now contending for leadership. For the first time in 25 years, no clear leader exists. Campaigns clash through attack ads and their appeals flood various media channels. With no incumbent and a diverse candidate pool, the race could bring historical changes.
The only person of color ever elected governor was Romualdo Pacheco in 1875. Although there were speculations about prominent figures like Vice President Kamala Harris and U.S. Senator Alex Padilla entering the race, both have decided to stay out.
Current Candidates
Xavier Becerra
Position: Former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services
Background: Age 68, Sacramento resident, married with three daughters. A Democrat and son of Mexican immigrants. Launched his campaign in April 2025. Known for legal battles against the Trump administration during his tenure as California Attorney General.
Becerra boasts a history in national politics, having opposed the Iraq War and Defense of Marriage Act. His role in COVID-19 response and expansion of healthcare under the Affordable Care Act are notable achievements.
Chad Bianco
Position: Riverside County Sheriff
Background: Age 58, Riverside resident, married with four children. Republican critical of Newsom and Democratic policies. Launched his campaign in February 2025. Supports Trump’s border security strategies and holds conservative political views.
Steve Hilton
Position: Former Senior Advisor to British Prime Minister David Cameron
Background: Age 56, lives in Atherton. A Republican who has taught at Stanford and hosted a Fox News show. Immigrated from England in 2012. Hilton opposes California’s Democratic leadership and founded a research group to support his vision for California.
Matt Mahan
Position: Mayor of San José
Background: Age 43, San José resident with a tech entrepreneurship background. A Democrat known for moderate governance styles. He has supported policies toughening penalties for theft and has rejected new taxation on billionaires.
Katie Porter
Position: U.S. House of Representatives, Orange County
Background: Age 52, former law professor known for incisive questioning of CEOs. Faced criticism after a video confrontation with a reporter. Resumed her academic role after a failed Senate bid.
Tom Steyer
Position: Billionaire and political activist
Background: Age 68, based in San Francisco. A former financier turned environmental advocate. Ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2020. Plans to build homes and promote free education.
Tony Thurmond
Position: California Superintendent of Public Instruction
Background: Age 57, has served in state education roles and the Assembly. Emphasizes tackling economic inequality and opposes conservative educational restrictions.
Antonio Villaraigosa
Position: Former Mayor of Los Angeles
Background: Age 73, had past successes in law enforcement and transit initiatives. Prominent due to challenging unions and pushing reforms.
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