California Democrats Struggle to Choose Newsom Successor/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ California Democrats are showing unusual hesitation as they prepare to choose a successor to Gov. Gavin Newsom in a crowded primary race. With nearly 60 candidates on the ballot, many voters remain undecided and are delaying returning ballots. The contest has exposed divisions inside the Democratic Party while Republicans hope to capitalize on voter frustration.
California Governor Race Quick Looks
- California primary scheduled for June 2.
- Roughly 60 candidates running statewide.
- No clear Democratic frontrunner has emerged.
- Ballot returns slower than normal among Democrats.
- Xavier Becerra gaining momentum in polling.
- Tom Steyer attracting climate-focused voters.
- Steve Hilton backed by Trump.
- GOP hopes for top-two primary breakthrough.
- Eric Swalwell exit reshaped race dynamics.
- Voters worried about “wasting” ballots.
Deep Look
California Democrats Face Uncertain Governor Race
California Democrats are approaching the June 2 gubernatorial primary without a clear favorite in one of the most unpredictable statewide races in years.
The crowded contest to replace termed-out Gov. Gavin Newsom has left many Democratic voters uncertain, frustrated and waiting until the last moment to cast ballots.
Unlike previous California governor races dominated by nationally known figures such as Arnold Schwarzenegger or Jerry Brown, this year’s field lacks a dominant political superstar.
“I’m kind of pinching my nose and voting this go-around rather than being excited,” said San Diego voter Colin Culver after choosing billionaire climate activist Tom Steyer.
California’s Top-Two System Raises Stakes
California’s unique top-two primary system has intensified Democratic anxiety.
Under the system:
- All candidates appear on one ballot
- The top two finishers advance regardless of party affiliation
With dozens of Democrats splitting votes, party leaders worried earlier this year that two Republicans could emerge from the primary and shut Democrats out of the general election entirely.
The main Republican contenders include:
- Chad Bianco
- Steve Hilton
Hilton’s campaign received a boost after endorsement from Donald Trump in April.
Eric Swalwell Exit Changed Race Dynamics
The race shifted dramatically after former congressman Eric Swalwell dropped out following sexual assault allegations.
Although Democrats now believe a full Republican top-two upset is less likely, the controversy added more uncertainty to an already chaotic campaign.
Republicans have not won California’s governorship since 2011, but Democratic strategists remain cautious because of fractured support across the field.
Democrats Returning Ballots More Slowly
Political analysts say Democratic turnout patterns have become unusual.
Historically:
- Democrats vote earlier by mail
- Republicans often wait until Election Day
This year, Democrats are holding onto ballots longer while watching polls and campaign developments.
Democratic strategist Paul Mitchell said:
“My joke is: Call your Democratic parents and tell them to turn in their ballot.”
“They are holding onto the ballot because they have seen this kind of topsy-turvy governor’s race. They’re waiting to make sure they’re making the right choice.”
As of Wednesday:
- About 10% of registered voters had voted
- Roughly 15% of Republicans had returned ballots
- About 10% of Democrats had voted
Xavier Becerra and Tom Steyer Gain Attention
Polling shows several candidates clustered closely together.
Leading Democratic contenders include:
Xavier Becerra
Becerra has gained momentum after polling near 5% earlier in the spring.
Supporters cite:
- Extensive government experience
- Service as California attorney general
- Federal cabinet leadership
Still, some voters remain skeptical about aspects of his record.
Tom Steyer
Steyer has used personal wealth to heavily fund his campaign while focusing on:
- Climate policy
- Energy affordability
- Economic reform
Some Democrats remain uncomfortable supporting billionaire candidates but see him as one of the few viable alternatives.
Other Democrats Struggle for Momentum
Additional Democratic contenders include:
- Katie Porter
- Antonio Villaraigosa
- Socialist candidate Ramsey Robinson
Despite participating in debates and campaigning statewide, several candidates have struggled to gain double-digit support.
Many voters say they are balancing:
- Ideological preference
- Electability concerns
- Fear of wasting votes
Democratic Party Divisions on Display
The race has increasingly become a reflection of broader Democratic tensions nationally.
Key debates inside the party include:
- Establishment versus outsider candidates
- Progressive versus moderate priorities
- Wealth and campaign financing
- Climate and affordability policy
- Criminal justice and policing issues
The outcome could shape California politics for years while also influencing the national Democratic conversation heading into the 2028 presidential cycle.
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