A week after polls closed in California’s open gubernatorial primary on June 6, 2026, Democrat Xavier Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton will advance to the November general election. Becerra, the former state Attorney General and Health and Human Services Secretary, received 27.9% of the vote, while Hilton, a former Fox News host, garnered 25%. Tom Steyer, a billionaire businessman and climate activist, placed third with 22.5%.
California's 'jungle primary' system allows voters to select any candidate for statewide offices, regardless of party affiliation. The primary election was influenced by the withdrawal of Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell in April due to sexual assault allegations, which led to concerns about vote splitting among Democrats. Becerra, favored by the state Democratic establishment, received significant support from oil and gas companies, while Steyer contributed over $200 million of his own funds to his campaign.
San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan, who entered the race late, received less than 4% of the vote despite substantial donations from Silicon Valley. The upcoming general election will see Becerra and Hilton compete for the governorship, with Hilton facing challenges due to Trump's unpopularity in California.
