Who Will Replace Gavin Newsom? What to Know About California's Primary Election

California, one of the most left-leaning states in the U.S., is heading into a primary election on June 2, kicking off the general election campaign for the midterm elections in November. A unique feature of the state's primary system could give Republicans a chance to seize control of the governor's office.

California is one of two states that use a 'jungle primary' system, where voters can cast ballots for any candidate, regardless of party affiliation. The top two vote-getters advance to the general election.

With 61 candidates vying for governor this year, Democratic votes are heavily fragmented, potentially paving the way for two Republican candidates to take the lead.

Election Timing

California's primary takes place on June 2. Mail-in ballots are sent to all registered voters. To be counted, ballots must be postmarked on or before Election Day and arrive at the county elections office by June 9.

Key Races

Beyond the governor's race, several state-level positions such as attorney general, state treasurer, and lieutenant governor are also being contested. The race for mayor of Los Angeles, the state's largest city, is also under close scrutiny.

California has no U.S. Senate election this year, but the race for the U.S. House of Representatives will be crucial. With 52 House seats, California has the most of any state. Democrats aim to regain control of the House in the November midterms, and the June 2 primaries will play a pivotal role.

Redistricting Battle

This primary is the first time California is using new congressional district maps. The maps are part of a broader battle for control of the House. Responding to pressure from President Donald Trump on Republican-led states, Governor Newsom pushed Proposition 50, a ballot initiative requiring California to redraw maps in a way favorable to Democrats.

Notable House Races

One of the most symbolic races is in the 11th district, where former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has served. Her retirement after four decades has opened a competitive race. The leading candidate is State Senator Scott Wiener, a moderate, facing two left-wing challengers: Saikat Chakrabarti, former chief of staff to Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and Connie Chan, a San Francisco supervisor backed by Pelosi.

Competitive Races

One of the tightest races is in the 22nd district in the San Joaquin Valley. Republican Representative David Valadao faces two Democratic opponents: Jasmeet Bains (moderate) and Randy Villegas (progressive). The Los Angeles Times describes the race as a 'fierce battle' between the two Democratic candidates.

Governor's Race

Governor Gavin Newsom, who became a national figure during his two terms, cannot seek reelection due to term limits. This is one of the hottest races of the primary season. No candidate has clearly emerged, and California has not elected a Republican governor since 2006.

The race has also seen scandals. Democratic Representative Eric Swalwell, once considered a frontrunner, withdrew in April following sexual misconduct allegations.

Jungle Primary System

California uses a 'top-two primary' system, where voters can vote for any candidate regardless of party. The top two vote-getters advance to the general election. This year, the large number of Democratic candidates risks the left wing having no representation in the general election, opening the door for two leading Republican candidates: Chad Bianco and Steve Hilton.

Republican Candidates

Steve Hilton, a Fox News commentator, is backed by President Trump. He proposes eliminating the state income tax on the first $100,000 earned by residents, increasing oil production, and slashing bureaucracy. Chad Bianco, Riverside County Sheriff, also aligned with Trump, pledges to tighten security, roll back criminal justice reforms, and push back against state 'sanctuary' laws that limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.

Democratic Candidates

Xavier Becerra, former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services under President Joe Biden, has emerged as a late frontrunner. Tom Steyer, a billionaire hedge fund manager, pledges to raise corporate taxes, reduce energy costs, and ban corporate contributions to political action committees (PACs). Other top Democratic candidates include San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan and former Representative Katie Porter.

Polls

A survey by the Public Policy Institute of California released on May 28 shows Becerra leading with 23% support, followed by Hilton at 20% and Steyer at 15%.