California's Next Governor: The Race Is ON — and the Whole Country Is Watching!

Who will lead the nation's most powerful state?

Buckle up, because California's 2026 governor's race is already packed with drama and suspense.

The field is shifting fast. Eric Swalwell is out. Betty Yee has exited. Trump threw his weight behind Republican Steve Hilton, skipping past Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco. For the Democrats, the lineup is too crowded: Katie Porter, Tom Steyer, Xavier Becerra, Matt Mahan, Antonio Villaraigosa, and Tony Thurmond are still in the mix — and the jockeying for one of the top 3 spots is fierce.

And here's the twist that has Democrats concerned: Could November's general election ballot feature TWO Republicans and zero Democrats? That's the wild card hiding inside California's unique Top Two Primary system — and it's absolutely worth understanding before you vote.

Tune in to the nationally televised California Governor’s race debate:

-April 28 — CBS | 5:30–7:00 PM PT

-May 5 — CNN | 6:00–8:00 PM PT

Then join us on May 6 for a lively, interactive, round-table discussion where we break it all down together — the candidates, the controversies, the strategy, and what it all means for California's future. Come ready to talk, debate, and engage!

This is YOUR state. Have YOUR say. See you on May 6!

Quick Facts for the June 2 California Primary from the Secretary of State are here:

https://elections.cdn.sos.ca.gov/pdfs/quick-facts-2026-primary.pdf

Santa Barbara County Elections Office link for June 2 California Primary Election info is here:

https://www.countyofsb.org/4900/June-2-2026-Statewide-Direct-Primary-Ele