California Governor's Race: Crowded Field Vies to Replace Newsom

Lesser-known Democrats, Republicans, and a Green candidate compete for voters' attention in 2026 election.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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With Governor Gavin Newsom term-limited and Representative Nancy Pelosi retiring, the race to replace them in California is wide open. A cluster of lesser-known Democrats, two Republicans, and a Green candidate are fighting for the attention of frustrated voters concerned about issues like housing prices, homelessness, and the state's relationship with the federal government. Under California's election system, the top two vote-getters in the June primary will advance to the November general election, regardless of party affiliation.

Why it matters

The California governor's race is a high-profile contest that will shape the state's political landscape for years to come. With no clear successor to the Newsom-Pelosi political machine, the crowded field reflects the shifting dynamics in the state's Democratic party as well as an opportunity for Republicans and third-party candidates to make inroads.

The details

The race features a diverse group of candidates, including several lesser-known Democrats, two Republicans, and a Green party candidate. Notable contenders include a mix of state and local officials, political outsiders, and experienced politicians. The wide-open nature of the contest means the eventual nominees could come from unexpected corners, potentially shaking up California's traditionally Democratic dominance.

  • The California gubernatorial primary election will be held on June 2, 2026.
  • The general election is scheduled for November 2026.

The players

Gavin Newsom

The current Governor of California, who is term-limited and cannot run for re-election.

Nancy Pelosi

The U.S. Representative for California's 12th congressional district, who is set to retire at the end of her term in 2023.

Kamala Harris

The former Vice President of the United States, who considered running for California governor but ultimately did not enter the race.

Alex Padilla

The current U.S. Senator for California, who also weighed a run for governor but decided against it.

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What they’re saying

“With no clear successor, the contest to replace Mr. Newsom is wide open.”

— Jill Cowan, Author (nytimes.com)

“If the state's overwhelmingly Democratic electorate splits its votes among the many Democratic candidates, there is a small chance that two Republicans could advance to the general election.”

— Jill Cowan, Author (nytimes.com)

What’s next

The California gubernatorial primary election will be held on June 2, 2026, with the top two vote-getters advancing to the general election in November 2026.

The takeaway

The 2026 California governor's race represents a pivotal moment of transition, with the end of the Newsom-Pelosi political era and an opportunity for new voices and perspectives to emerge. The crowded and diverse field of candidates reflects the state's evolving political landscape and the potential for unexpected outcomes in the high-stakes contest.