High-Stakes Showdowns for California Governor, L.A. Mayor and City Council Lead the Primary Ballot

With the California primary election just one day away, on June 2, much of the attention has centered on the race for governor and Los Angeles' mayoral election. Xavier Becerra has emerged as a front-runner in the governor's race just two months after his campaign seemed doomed, now topping every major opinion poll.

In one of the most unusual mayoral election seasons in L.A. history, the latest voter survey shows no clear front-runner among incumbent Karen Bass, Councilmember Nithya Raman, and Spencer Pratt of MTV's "The Hills."

Californians also face several other races and ballot measures, including seven City Council district seats, a crowded rematch for L.A. County sheriff, and three tax measures.

The race for Los Angeles City Council could have profound influence on local government, with key issues including drugs and gentrification around MacArthur Park, new representation in the West Valley, growth and development on the Westside, homelessness in Venice, and a potential shift in representation in South L.A.

The contentious battle for L.A. city attorney features incumbent Hydee Feldstein Soto, who touts a tough stance on crime and accountability, while opponents claim mismanagement.

Incumbent City Controller Kenneth Mejia faces challenger Zach Sokoloff, whose mother contributed $7.5 million to his campaign.

Ballot measures include L.A. County's half-cent sales tax to prop up local hospitals and clinics, and three L.A.

measures affecting hotel taxes, online travel company taxes, and illegal cannabis businesses. The L.A.

County sheriff's race sees incumbent Robert Luna challenged by predecessor Alex Villanueva and six others.

California will play a big role in the fight for Congress, with Democrats hoping to gain up to five seats. President Trump has reached a perilous milestone with a 34% approval rating amid a cost-of-living crisis and an unpopular war with Iran.

Other news includes ballots burned and a vote center vandalized in L.A. County, and a judge denying Bill Cosby's request for a new trial in a $19.25 million civil sex assault case.