As California approaches the gubernatorial primary election on June 2, 2024, the field of candidates continues to grow in anticipation of replacing the termed-out Governor Gavin Newsom. With less than six months to go, several prominent figures have declared their intentions to run, each bringing unique backgrounds and political agendas to the race.
Key Candidates and Their Backgrounds
Among the leading candidates is Xavier Becerra, currently serving as the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services. Becerra, who previously held the position of California Attorney General, has highlighted the Biden administration’s achievement of administering over 700 million COVID-19 vaccination shots. Additionally, he has emphasized his efforts to expand healthcare access under the Affordable Care Act. Despite his strong credentials, Becerra faces challenges, including scrutiny related to an indictment involving his former chief deputy, although he himself is not implicated in any wrongdoing.
Another notable contender is Chad Bianco, the Riverside County Sheriff, who has gained attention for supporting Proposition 36, which aims to reverse certain progressive criminal justice reforms. However, Bianco’s past affiliations with the far-right group Oath Keepers have raised concerns, particularly following their involvement in the January 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection.
Former Assembly Majority Leader Ian Calderon also seeks the governorship. He has been proactive in promoting regulatory measures for the technology sector and environmental legislation, such as banning plastic straws unless requested. Nevertheless, Calderon’s family legacy has been marred by legal troubles, with two uncles serving prison time for bribery-related offenses, although Ian himself has not faced any allegations.
In a more international context, Andrew Hilton, a senior adviser to former British Prime Minister David Cameron, aims to bring a global perspective to California politics. Hilton is recognized for his efforts to modernize the British conservative movement while advocating for social liberalism, although he stepped back from his role in 2018 due to controversies surrounding his support for former President Donald Trump.
Emerging Candidates and Their Challenges
Another candidate, Katie Porter, a U.S. House Representative from Orange County, has emerged as a national political figure after her high-profile clashes with former Speaker Nancy Pelosi over congressional conduct. While Porter has garnered support for her progressive policies, a recent contentious interview raised questions about her temperament, which may affect her campaign.
Tech entrepreneur Tom Steyer, a billionaire hedge fund manager, is also in the race. Steyer previously ran for president in 2020 but withdrew after spending nearly $342 million on his campaign without significant traction. His controversial investments, including in a coal mine and migrant detention centers, have been focal points of criticism.
Another candidate, Tony Thurmond, California’s Superintendent of Public Instruction, opposes the efforts of conservative school boards attempting to ban textbooks. Despite facing accusations regarding workplace culture within his department, Thurmond was overwhelmingly reelected in 2022.
Former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa also seeks to reclaim a political position. He is credited with initiatives that led to a significant drop in violent crime during his tenure. However, his past personal missteps, including an extramarital affair, have drawn considerable media attention.
Finally, Betty Yee, California’s former controller, has garnered attention for uncovering over $4 billion in misused funds during her audits. Despite her reelection in 2018, Yee faces scrutiny regarding her involvement with a politically-connected firm that sought a lucrative government contract during the pandemic.
As the primary date approaches, the dynamics of the race will continue to evolve, with candidates expected to sharpen their platforms and engage in debates to attract voters across California.
