As the June 2026 primary election for California governor approaches, the field of top candidates is starting to take shape. With the current governor, Gavin Newsom, reaching his term limit, the race for his successor is heating up. The state of California, known for its progressive policies and diverse population, will be closely watching as the candidates campaign for their chance to lead the Golden State.
One of the top contenders in the race is Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis. A former U.S. Ambassador to Hungary, Kounalakis has a strong background in diplomacy and international relations. She has also been a vocal advocate for women’s rights and has been endorsed by several prominent female leaders in California. Kounalakis has already started to gain momentum with her campaign, and her experience and values make her a strong candidate for governor.
Another candidate to watch is California State Treasurer Fiona Ma. Ma has a long history in California politics, having served in the state legislature and as a member of the State Board of Equalization. As treasurer, she has focused on promoting economic growth and supporting small businesses. Ma’s experience in finance and her commitment to the state’s economy make her a strong contender for the governorship.
Former Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti has also thrown his hat into the ring. Garcetti’s tenure as mayor saw significant improvements in the city, including a decrease in crime rates and an increase in affordable housing. He has also been a vocal advocate for addressing climate change and promoting sustainable practices. With his track record of success in Los Angeles, Garcetti is a formidable candidate for governor.
Another candidate with a strong background in local government is San Francisco Mayor London Breed. Breed has been praised for her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as her efforts to address homelessness and affordable housing in the city. She would bring a fresh perspective to the governor’s office and has already gained support from many San Franciscans.
One of the more unconventional candidates in the race is tech entrepreneur and philanthropist, Andrew Yang. Known for his presidential run in 2020, Yang has gained a following for his ideas on universal basic income and his focus on the impact of automation on the workforce. While he may not have as much political experience as some of the other candidates, Yang’s unique perspective and innovative ideas could bring a fresh approach to California’s government.
Another candidate to watch is California Secretary of State Alex Padilla. Padilla has been a strong advocate for voting rights and has implemented policies to increase voter participation in the state. He has also been a vocal supporter of immigrant rights and has been endorsed by several prominent Latino leaders. Padilla’s experience and dedication to the people of California make him a top contender for the governorship.
Rounding out the top candidates is California Attorney General Xavier Becerra. Becerra has a long history in California politics, having served in the state legislature before becoming attorney general. He has been a vocal advocate for healthcare access and has taken on the Trump administration in several high-profile cases. Becerra’s experience and strong track record make him a serious contender for the governorship.
The field of candidates for California governor in the June 2026 primary election is shaping up to be a diverse and talented group. Each candidate brings their unique experiences and perspectives to the table, and the race is sure to be an exciting one. As the candidates continue to campaign and share their visions for the future of California, it will be up to the voters to decide who will lead the state into the next chapter.
One thing is for sure, the future of California is in good hands with these top candidates. Whether it’s their experience in politics, finance, or business, each candidate has the potential to bring positive change to the state. As we approach the June primary, let’s keep an open mind and carefully consider each candidate’s platform and qualifications. Together, we can choose the best leader to guide California towards a brighter and more prosperous future.
