In the first round of the California governor race, Republican Steve Hilton and Democrat Xavier Becerra took the lead in unofficial early results. As votes continue to be counted, the chances of these two making it to the general election in November have strengthened.
The race to replace Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom, whose term is ending, is critically important for one of the most populous states in the country and one of the world's largest economies. While the result has not yet been finalized, it has been reported that mail-in and provisional ballots are still being counted.
Highlights
- Steve Hilton took first place in early counts.
- Xavier Becerra stood out by taking second place.
- Results have not yet been certified as vote counting continues.
- A primary system was applied in California where all candidates appeared on the same ballot.
- The top two candidates are expected to advance to the general election.
Hilton: Change is Coming
At an election night event in Orange County, Hilton addressed his supporters with a message of change for California. In his speech, he said that living costs in the state have risen significantly and emphasized that people will try to reduce their expenses.
Hilton noted that telling voters "honest and simple truths" contributed to his campaign. He also showed the lining of his jacket, which featured the American and California flags, explaining that years ago Arnold Schwarzenegger told him to wear it.
Becerra in Second Place
Xavier Becerra, in his speech to supporters, described the success of his campaign as a turning point. Becerra is at a historic threshold, as if he wins, he will be California’s first Latino governor since Romualdo Pacheco, who served briefly in 1875.
California’s primary system is based on all candidates competing on the same ballot regardless of party. The two candidates with the most votes, regardless of party, advance to the general election.
Third Place Draws Attention in Crowded Race
Businessman and environmentalist Tom Steyer was in third place as counting continued. Steyer’s campaign, which reportedly spent more than $200 million of his own fortune, showed how intense the advertising and promotion race is in the state.
Alongside Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, former Democratic Representative Katie Porter, San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, and state education official Tony Thurmond were also among the candidates. The presence of 61 candidates on the ballot revealed how broad the race is.
Race Affecting Political Balances
Hilton aims to be the first Republican governor elected in California since Arnold Schwarzenegger’s victory in 2006. Trump’s support was one of the notable aspects of Hilton’s campaign.
Meanwhile, Kamala Harris and Senator Alex Padilla’s decision not to run for governor created an unusual lack of a clear frontrunner in the state. This situation was further highlighted by issues such as destructive wildfires in the Los Angeles area and immigration raids under the Trump administration.
Another turning point in the race was Democratic Representative Eric Swalwell’s withdrawal from the race. Swalwell later left Congress as well; he has continued to deny allegations of sexual assault and inappropriate behavior that surfaced after his withdrawal. His exit paved the way for Steyer and then Becerra to rise in the race.
Context: The California governor race is closely watched not only for state governance but also for the balance of power between Democrats and Republicans in national politics. Once the results are finalized, the general election picture in November will become clearer.
