California Today

California Primary: Tight Races for Governor and Congress as Voters Head to Polls

01 June 2026 11:50

California voters go to the polls on Tuesday for a primary election that will determine the top two candidates for governor and set the stage for U.S. House races under new district maps.

Key facts: - 61 candidates are running for governor, including Democrats Xavier Becerra, Katie Porter, Matt Mahan, Tom Steyer, and Antonio Villaraigosa, and Republicans Chad Bianco and Steve Hilton. - The top-two primary format could allow two Republicans to advance if the Democratic vote is split.

- U.S. House races use new boundaries approved in a 2025 referendum; special elections fill vacancies in the 1st and 14th districts.

- Polls close at 8 p.m. PT; about 2.6 million ballots have already been cast.

The AP will declare winners only when no trailing candidate can close the gap.

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