OpenCampaign

2026 election issues

2026 gubernatorial direction

With Governor Newsom term-limited, the 2026 governor’s race is wide open and increasingly competitive, featuring a crowded Democratic field and leading Republican candidates, so voters will effectively choose the state’s executive direction on affordability, energy, and governance.

Where do you stand?

What kind of governor should California elect in 2026?

How important is this to you?

Sources

prostateaffairs.com — https://prostateaffairs.com/ca/politics/california-political-issues-2026
With Newsom term-limited, California’s 2026 governor’s race is wide open—and increasingly competitive. Attorney General Rob Bontais expected to enter the race, while Katie Porter and Rep. Eric Swalwell currently lead a crowded Democratic field. But early polls show them roughly tied with two leading Republican candidates: Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco and former Fox News host Steve Hilton.
CalMatters — https://calmatters.org/california-voter-guide-2026
California is picking a new governor. After a wild primary, the choices are now Democrat Xavier Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton.
Positions on this issue  ·  liberal → conservative
  1. A progressive Democrat who expands state programs on housing, climate, and social equity
  2. A mainstream Democrat focused on competent delivery and incremental cost-of-living relief
  3. A pragmatic moderate from either party who prioritizes results over ideology
  4. A reform-minded Republican who cuts regulation and challenges Sacramento orthodoxy
  5. A strongly conservative Republican who reduces taxes, crime, and progressive mandates