Republican Steve Hilton and Democrat Xavier Becerra hold the lead in California’s unsettled governor’s race, as billionaire Tom Steyer clings to dwindling hopes of a late surge to survive elimination. - Hilton, a British immigrant and former Fox News commentator, leads in early returns.
- Becerra, a former Biden cabinet member, rose from low single digits after Eric Swalwell's scandal-driven collapse. - Steyer spent over $216 million of his own money but faces mathematical elimination.
- The race lacks a clear front-runner and unfolds amid voter anxiety over the cost of living. The high-stakes contest tests whether money, message or momentum matters most, with the top two candidates advancing to November.