Californians are heading to the polls on Tuesday for a primary election that will set the stage for high-stakes races for governor, Los Angeles mayor, and several key congressional seats. Voters are expressing frustration over the cost of living and political direction, with little clarity in the closing stretch of the campaign.
Governor's Race: Becerra Leads, Steyer and Hilton Vie for Second
In the race to succeed term-limited Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom, recent polls show former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra leading with around 23-28% support. Progressive billionaire Tom Steyer and Republican Steve Hilton, a former Fox News personality endorsed by Donald Trump, are competing for second place. Under California's nonpartisan primary system, the top two finishers advance to November regardless of party.
Voter Discontent Shapes the Contest
Mark Baldassare of the Public Policy Institute of California notes that about half of Californians believe the state is on the wrong track, but that is overshadowed by greater dissatisfaction with the nation. Three-quarters of residents say the country is headed in the wrong direction, the highest since 2003. Only 30% of likely voters approve of Trump's job performance.
Los Angeles Mayor: Bass Faces Strong Challengers
Incumbent Mayor Karen Bass is struggling against voter frustration over homelessness, affordability, and her handling of last year's wildfires. Her main challengers include progressive councilmember Nithya Raman and reality TV star Spencer Pratt, a Palisades fire victim whose campaign has gained attention. A UC Berkeley poll shows Bass at 26%, Raman at 25%, and Pratt at 22%.
Congressional Races: High Stakes for National Control
The battle for California's 52 congressional districts could determine control of the U.S. House. Democrats need only a few seats to reclaim the majority, and several California contests are highly competitive. Redrawn districts under Proposition 50 have created new opportunities for Democrats, while scrambling calculations for Republicans.
Key Races to Watch
In the central valley, Republican David Valadao defends a seat that now leans Democratic. Democrats Randy Villegas (backed by Bernie Sanders) and Jasmeet Bains (moderate, DCCC-backed) are vying to challenge him. In Orange County, Republicans Ken Calvert and Young Kim face off in the same redrawn district. In San Francisco, the race to replace retiring House Speaker Nancy Pelosi pits Connie Chan, Scott Wiener, and Saikat Chakrabarti against each other.
Political scientist Sara Sadhwani of Pomona College says the outcomes will signal whether the party is shifting left or staying with the establishment. Results may take time due to late absentee ballots, with only 16% of ballots submitted as of Monday.
