San Jose Mayor Mahan Slams Rival Steyer's 'Stupid' Bid for CA Governor

Mahan accuses billionaire Steyer of trying to 'buy' the governor's race despite a record that conflicts with his current progressive messaging.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 11:35pm

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San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan escalated his attacks on fellow Democratic gubernatorial candidate Tom Steyer, accusing the billionaire former hedge fund manager of attempting to use his wealth to buy the California governor's office despite a record that Mahan argued conflicts with Steyer's current political message.

Why it matters

The California governor's race is shaping up to be a contentious battle between Democrats, with Mahan criticizing Steyer's past business dealings and portrayal as a progressive champion. This intra-party feud could impact the broader race and shape the policy agenda for the next California governor.

The details

Appearing on the 'Really American' podcast, Mahan said Steyer 'thinks you're stupid' and accused him of spending '$120 million trying to buy the governor's office' after failing in his $200 million presidential bid. Mahan argued Steyer made his fortune investing in 'private prisons, ICE detention centers, oil, gas, and coal companies' before now trying to present himself as an environmental and criminal justice reformer.

  • Mahan's comments came on Wednesday, April 15, 2026.
  • Steyer entered the California governor's race in November 2025 after his failed 2020 presidential campaign.

The players

Matt Mahan

The mayor of San Jose, California, and a Democratic candidate for governor.

Tom Steyer

A billionaire former hedge fund manager and Democratic candidate for California governor.

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What they’re saying

“Tom Steyer thinks you're stupid. I mean, this is a guy who has just spent $120 million trying to buy the governor's office after he failed to buy the presidency, spending $200 million in that endeavor.”

— Matt Mahan, San Jose Mayor

What’s next

Recent polling has shown Republican Steve Hilton leading the field, with Steyer in second place and Mahan polling at 3%. The race remains highly competitive, with 17% of voters undecided.

The takeaway

Mahan's attacks on Steyer's past business dealings and attempts to portray himself as a progressive champion highlight the intra-party divisions within the Democratic field. This could impact the broader race and shape the policy agenda for the next California governor.