California Democrats Struggle to Find Gubernatorial Frontrunner

Party conference fails to produce a clear leader, with no new policy ideas on display

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The California Democratic Party conference failed to produce a clear frontrunner for the gubernatorial race, with a crowded field of candidates splitting the vote. None of the candidates, including Eric Swalwell, Katie Porter, Betty Yee, Xavier Becerra, and Tom Steyer, were able to gain significant traction, as the party seems to lack a unifying vision and new policy ideas.

Why it matters

The inability of California Democrats to coalesce around a strong gubernatorial candidate raises concerns about the party's direction and ability to effectively govern the state. With no clear leader emerging, the primary race could become fractured, potentially benefiting the Republican challenger.

The details

At the party conference, Eric Swalwell led the pack with 24% of the vote, positioning himself as the most anti-Trump candidate. Katie Porter, who held up a 'F--- Trump' sign, came in fifth place with single-digit support, despite the backing of former mentor Elizabeth Warren. Other candidates, including former state controller Betty Yee, former attorney general Xavier Becerra, and billionaire Tom Steyer, also failed to gain significant momentum. The only real 'idea' on display was Porter's anti-Trump sentiment, which the editorial board argues has already been the theme of Governor Gavin Newsom's administration.

  • The California Democratic Party conference was held in February 2026.

The players

Eric Swalwell

A former U.S. Representative who positioned himself as the most anti-Trump candidate in the gubernatorial race.

Katie Porter

A former U.S. Representative who held up a 'F--- Trump' sign at the party conference, despite the backing of her former mentor, Elizabeth Warren.

Betty Yee

The former California State Controller who finished in fourth place at the party conference.

Xavier Becerra

The former California Attorney General who finished in fifth place at the party conference.

Tom Steyer

A billionaire who finished in fourth place at the party conference, despite having money to spend on advertising and hiring strategists.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

The inability of California Democrats to coalesce around a strong gubernatorial candidate highlights the party's lack of a unifying vision and new policy ideas, raising concerns about their ability to effectively govern the state and potentially benefiting the Republican challenger.