The final 2? An anxious California waits to see who advances in drama-filled governor's race
Key takeaways
- With polls closed throughout California, the vote tally begins in the chaotic primary election for governor, a volatile contest to determine which two candidates will square off in November for the chance to replace Gov.
- The final stretch of the election became a three-way race among veteran Democratic politician Xavier Becerra, Republican commentator Steve Hilton and billionaire Democratic climate activist Tom Steyer.
- Other candidates in the race included Republican Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco and Democrats including former Rep.
A polling worker helps direct a voter, right, at Beverly Hills City Hall on Tuesday. (Christina House / Los Angeles Times) By Nicole Nixon and Seema Mehta June 2, 2026 8 PM PT 9 min Click here to listen to this article Share via Close extra sharing options Email Facebook X Linked In Threads Reddit Whats App Copy Link URL Copied! Print 0:00 0:00 1x This is read by an automated voice. Please report any issues or inconsistencies here.
With polls closed throughout California, the vote tally begins in the chaotic primary election for governor, a volatile contest to determine which two candidates will square off in November for the chance to replace Gov. Gavin Newsom as leader of the nation’s most populous state and the world’s fourth-largest economy.
The final stretch of the election became a three-way race among veteran Democratic politician Xavier Becerra, Republican commentator Steve Hilton and billionaire Democratic climate activist Tom Steyer. Only two will advance to the general election.