The California gubernatorial primary on June 2 features a crowded field of 61 candidates, with Xavier Becerra, Steve Hilton, and Tom Steyer emerging as the top contenders. Recent polls show Becerra leading with 23-28%, followed by Hilton at 20-21% and Steyer at 15-22%.
- About 15% of the vote is needed to secure a top-two spot for the November general election. - Low voter turnout (under 40%) and a large undecided bloc (1 in 4 voters) could sway the outcome.
- The race is already the most expensive governor's contest on record, with nearly $316 million in ad spending. The winner will manage California's $4 trillion economy, debt, housing costs, homelessness, and wildfire prevention.