Riverside Sheriff Bianco Tied For 3rd In California Governor's Race

Latest poll shows Tom Steyer (D) and Steve Hilton (R) leading the pack

Apr. 14, 2026 at 8:10pm

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A dynamic, abstract painting featuring overlapping, geometric shapes and waves of warm earth tones and vibrant blues, conceptually representing the shifting political dynamics in the California governor's race.A fractured, kinetic depiction of California's political landscape as the race for governor heats up.San Diego Today

A new poll from SurveyUSA shows Democratic candidate Tom Steyer and Republican Steve Hilton leading the race for California governor, with Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco (R) tied for third place along with Democratic Congressman Eric Swalwell and Congresswoman Katie Porter (D).

Why it matters

The California governor's race is a high-profile contest that will shape the state's policies on key issues like climate change, housing, immigration, and the relationship between state government and the tech industry. Bianco's strong showing as a Republican candidate in a traditionally Democratic state is notable.

The details

The SurveyUSA poll, conducted on behalf of KGTV News 10 and the San Diego Union-Tribune, surveyed 1,200 California adults from April 8-10, 2026. It found Steyer leading with 21% of the vote, followed by Hilton at 18%. Bianco, Swalwell, and Porter were all effectively tied for third place at 8-9% each. Five other Democratic candidates trailed further behind, while 18% of likely voters remained undecided.

  • The poll was conducted from April 8-10, 2026.
  • The California primary election is scheduled for June 2, 2026.

The players

Tom Steyer

A Democratic candidate for California governor.

Steve Hilton

A Republican candidate for California governor.

Chad Bianco

The Riverside County Sheriff and a Republican candidate for California governor.

Eric Swalwell

A Democratic Congressman who was previously a candidate for California governor but has since withdrawn amid allegations of sexual assault.

Katie Porter

A Democratic Congresswoman and candidate for California governor.

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What’s next

The California primary election is scheduled for June 2, 2026, where the top two vote-getters will advance to the general election in November.

The takeaway

The California governor's race is shaping up to be a closely watched contest, with a mix of established political figures and newcomers vying for the state's top job. The strong showing of Republican candidates like Bianco in a traditionally Democratic state could signal a shift in the political landscape.