In brief
Rep. Eric Swalwell's abrupt exit from the California governor race has raised concerns among Democrats about vote division in a crowded field. The state's unique top-two primary system now threatens their chances of advancing two Democrats to the general election, as candidates like Chad Bianco, Steve Hilton, Katie Porter, and Tom Steyer vie for attention. Amidst debates on eligibility and identity, the race heats up as mail-in voting looms.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — The stunning collapse of Rep. Eric Swalwell’s California governor campaign has upended the wide-open contest where no Democratic candidate has emerged as a clear frontrunner and mail-in voting is scheduled to start in under a month.
Democrats, who have run the state for years, are publicly agonizing over the possibility they may be shut out of the general election in November. California has an unpredictable top-two primary system that puts all candidates on one ballot, with only the top two vote-getters advancing to November, regardless of party. Despite their party’s dominance in the state, Democrats fear their crowded pool of candidates will divide the party’s vote and allow two Republicans to advance.
The race to replace California Gov. Gavin Newsom, who terms out after this year, has grown messy as candidates argue over debate eligibility and identity politics.
Here’s a look at the prominent candidates:
Chad Bianco, Republican
A Republican county sheriff from Riverside County, Bianco is an outspoken supporter of President Donald Trump and has over 30 years of law enforcement experience. He recently seized more than half a million ballots cast in a November special election as part of an investigation into counting discrepancies, facing legal challenges on this effort.
Steve Hilton, Republican
Hilton is a conservative commentator with a past show on Fox News, known for collaboration with former British Prime Minister David Cameron. He recently gained a notable endorsement from Trump.
Katie Porter, Democrat
Known for her unique questioning style in Congress, Porter was previously a congressmember who flipped a Republican-held seat in Orange County. She has faced criticisms for her harsh treatment of staff and her controversial media interactions.
Tom Steyer, Democrat
A billionaire activist who has significantly funded his campaign, Steyer is under scrutiny for previous investments in fossil fuels and private prisons.
Matt Mahan, Democrat
The mayor of San Jose, Mahan has positioned himself as a moderate Democrat and has garnered substantial support from the tech industry.
Betty Yee, Democrat
A former statewide financial officer, Yee faces challenges in building momentum for her campaign.
Xavier Becerra, Democrat
The former health official under President Biden, Becerra has had a muted response in the race despite his statewide recognition.
Antonio Villaraigosa, Democrat
The former mayor of Los Angeles, Villaraigosa has returned to try his luck again after previous unsuccessful gubernatorial pursuits.
Tony Thurmond, Democrat
As California's education chief, Thurmond emphasizes education reform but faces challenges related to his visibility in the race.
