San Jose Mayor Jumps into California Governor's Race

Matt Mahan, a frequent critic of Newsom, touts his record on homelessness and crime

Jan. 29, 2026 at 1:31pm

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San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan announced he is joining the crowded race to replace Gavin Newsom as governor of California. Mahan, a moderate Democrat, is touting his record of tackling issues like homelessness and crime in San Jose. He has emerged as a frequent critic of Newsom's policies and handling of these issues.

Why it matters

The California governor's race is shaping up to be a closely watched contest, with no clear frontrunner on the Democratic side. Mahan's entry as a moderate voice could shake up the race, particularly if he is able to position himself as an alternative to Newsom's more progressive approach.

The details

Mahan, a 43-year-old Harvard graduate and former tech entrepreneur, was elected mayor of San Jose in 2022. He has touted his record of reducing homelessness and crime in the city, including pushing a provision to make homeless people eligible for arrest if they reject shelter offers. Mahan has also criticized Newsom's handling of these issues, as well as the governor's focus on national politics.

  • Mahan announced his gubernatorial bid on January 29, 2026.
  • Mahan was elected mayor of San Jose in 2022.

The players

Matt Mahan

The mayor of San Jose, California, who is jumping into the race to replace Gavin Newsom as governor of the state. Mahan is positioning himself as a moderate Democrat with a track record of tackling issues like homelessness and crime.

Gavin Newsom

The current governor of California, who is termed out and cannot run for reelection. Newsom has been a frequent target of criticism from Mahan.

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What they’re saying

“I'm running to bring focus back to government. To give cities the tools they need to succeed. To show that the best resistance to division is results. And to prove that California can work again — for everyone.”

— Matt Mahan, Mayor of San Jose (greenwichtime.com)

What’s next

Mahan will need to build a statewide campaign and distinguish himself in a crowded Democratic field ahead of the June 2026 primary election.

The takeaway

Mahan's entry into the California governor's race as a moderate Democrat could shake up the contest, particularly if he is able to position himself as an alternative to Newsom's more progressive approach on issues like homelessness and crime.