California Today

California Governor's Primary: Becerra Leads, Hilton and Steyer Battle for Second

02 June 2026 05:15

California voters are deciding the top two candidates for governor in a highly uncertain primary. Xavier Becerra leads among Democrats, while Steve Hilton and Tom Steyer vie for second place.

The race to succeed Gavin Newsom is consequential for the state's future. - Becerra leads polls with about a quarter of likely voters' support.

- Hilton, endorsed by Trump, is in second place, with Steyer close behind. - The primary is unusually open, with no clear Democratic frontrunner for much of the campaign.

- Votes may take days or weeks to tally due to mail-in ballots. The winner of the primary will face a general election in November, where Democrats are favored due to their registration advantage.

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