California Democrats Crowd Governor's Race as GOP Sees Opportunity

With a dozen Democrats vying for the nomination, Republicans hope a crowded field could lead to an all-GOP runoff

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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With California Governor Gavin Newsom term-limited, the 2026 race to succeed him has attracted a large field of Democratic candidates, raising concerns that the crowded primary could inadvertently benefit Republicans. The state's top-two primary system means the top two vote-getters, regardless of party, advance to the general election. Some Democrats worry this could lead to a scenario where two Republicans make it through, even in the heavily Democratic state. Republican leaders are openly encouraging more Democrats to jump in, sensing an opportunity, while Democratic strategists caution that donors and labor groups are holding back support due to the large field.

Why it matters

California's governorship is a powerful position, and the outcome of this race could have significant implications for the state's political landscape and policy direction. A Republican victory would mark a major shift in the state's leadership, while an all-Democratic runoff would maintain the status quo. The dynamics of the primary race could also shape down-ballot contests and the broader balance of power in Sacramento.

The details

California uses a top-two primary system, where all candidates regardless of party affiliation appear on the same ballot, and the top two vote-getters advance to the general election. This has raised concerns among some Democrats that the crowded field of a dozen or more candidates could split the Democratic vote, potentially allowing two Republicans to make it through. Republican leaders like Corrin Rankin, the chair of the California Republican Party, have openly encouraged more Democrats to enter the race, sensing an opportunity. Democratic strategists like Steven Maviglio and RL Miller have expressed concerns about the scenario where no Democrats advance, though they see it as more of an 'academic exercise' than a likely outcome.

  • The California Democratic Party's upcoming convention in late February could be a 'moment of truth' as candidates may drop out if they don't have enough support to gain the party's endorsement.
  • The 2026 California gubernatorial election will take place in November, with the top-two primary election scheduled for June.

The players

Corrin Rankin

The chair of the California Republican Party, who has encouraged more Democrats to enter the governor's race, sensing an opportunity for Republicans.

Steven Maviglio

A California-based Democratic operative who has expressed concerns about the possibility of no Democrats advancing to the general election.

RL Miller

The chair of the California Democratic Party's Environmental Caucus, who has also discussed the scenario where no Democrats advance to the general election.

Antonio Villaraigosa

A former mayor of Los Angeles and former state representative who is running for governor, touting his experience as a 'proven problem-solver'.

Betty Yee

California's former state controller, who is running for governor and highlighting her statewide job experience and financial acumen.

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What they’re saying

“I think the Democrats should have a few more candidates. I say, if you're a Democrat, and you feel like running for governor? I say, jump in.”

— Corrin Rankin, Chair of the California Republican Party (ABC News)

“The fact that it's a possibility at all is enough to raise eyebrows and generate concern.”

— Steven Maviglio, California-based Democratic operative (ABC News)

“I'm running on a vision for California that says we can restore the California Dream... [I'm] the only one in this in this race who's been a chief executive of a large city.”

— Antonio Villaraigosa, Former mayor of Los Angeles and former state representative (ABC News)

“I think at the end of the day voters really do want somebody who can really just get on the job and begin to do the work.”

— Betty Yee, California's former state controller (ABC News)

“There's a majority, a clear majority, who think we need change, and that means a change from the Democrats.”

— Steve Hilton, Business owner and former Fox News host (ABC News)

What’s next

The California Democratic Party's upcoming convention in late February could be a pivotal moment, as candidates may drop out if they don't have enough support to gain the party's endorsement.

The takeaway

The crowded Democratic field in the 2026 California governor's race raises concerns that the top-two primary system could inadvertently benefit Republicans, even in the heavily Democratic state. This dynamic highlights the ongoing challenges and strategic considerations for both parties in navigating California's unique electoral landscape.