California Shakes Up 2026 Governor Race: Frontrunners Emerge
Unpacking the competitive race to succeed California Governor Gavin Newsom, with a field of 150 candidates and surprising early frontrunners vying for the state's top job.
California is gearing up for a high-stakes gubernatorial election in 2026 as the race to succeed current Governor Gavin Newsom heats up. With Newsom's term coming to an end and his eyes potentially set on higher office, the field of candidates is already crowded and dynamic.
A total of 150 candidates have submitted paperwork to run for the governorship, an unexpectedly large and diverse group vying for the state's top job. While the early frontrunner, Congressman Eric Swalwell, suspended his bid in April amid allegations of sexual misconduct, the race remains wide open with less than two months until election day.
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