Who Will Win the California Governor Primary? Three Names Have Emerged

California's gubernatorial primary on June 2 features a crowded field of 61 candidates, but three names have risen to the top: former Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, Republican Steve Hilton, and billionaire climate activist Tom Steyer. Recent polls show a tight race, with Becerra leading at 23-28%, Hilton at 20-21%, and Steyer close behind at 15-22%, depending on the survey.

About 15% of the vote is needed to secure one of the top two spots and advance to the November general election. Low voter turnout, with fewer than 40% of the state's 23 million registered voters expected to participate, and a large number of undecided voters—about 1 in 4—could significantly impact the outcome.

Becerra, who would be California's first elected Latino governor in over a century, has surged after former U.S. Rep.

Eric Swalwell dropped out in April amid sexual assault allegations. Hilton, endorsed by President Donald Trump, aims to end Democratic one-party rule, while Steyer has spent over $200 million of his own money on ads.

The race has already become the most expensive governor's contest on record, with nearly $316 million in ad spending. Key issues include managing California's $4 trillion economy, multibillion-dollar debt, high housing costs, homelessness, and wildfire prevention.

The primary is nonpartisan, meaning the top two vote-getters, regardless of party, will face off in November.