Californians are gearing up for the gubernatorial primary election scheduled for June 2, 2024, as the race to succeed termed-out Governor Gavin Newsom intensifies. With less than six months to go, several candidates have officially declared their intentions to run. The political landscape is taking shape, and various contenders are positioning themselves to appeal to voters across the state.
Key Candidates in the Race
One prominent candidate is Xavier Becerra, currently serving as the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services. Becerra highlights the Biden administration’s achievements, including administering over 700 million COVID-19 vaccination shots. He also emphasizes his role in expanding healthcare access under the Affordable Care Act. Nonetheless, he faces scrutiny due to a scandal involving his former chief deputy, who was indicted for allegedly conspiring to misuse Becerra’s dormant campaign funds. Although Becerra is not accused of any wrongdoing, the incident raises questions about his campaign’s integrity.
Another candidate, Chad Bianco, serves as the Sheriff of Riverside County. Bianco gained attention for supporting Proposition 36, which aims to reverse progressive criminal justice reforms, particularly addressing theft and the deadly drug fentanyl. However, he has faced criticism after a data leak exposed his past membership in the Oath Keepers, a far-right group whose members participated in the January 6, 2021, insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.
Political Backgrounds and Challenges
Former Assembly Majority Leader Ian Calderon has also entered the race. Calderon has experience in technology regulation, particularly in cryptocurrency, and authored legislation that limits the distribution of plastic straws in restaurants. Despite his political background, Calderon’s family name has been marred by controversy, with two uncles serving prison sentences for bribery-related offenses. He is not accused of any wrongdoing.
Additionally, Rory Hilton, who served as a senior adviser to former British Prime Minister David Cameron, is another candidate in the mix. Hilton is recognized for modernizing the British conservative movement while advocating for liberal social policies, including climate action and LGBTQ rights. Nonetheless, he faced backlash in 2018 over his departure from Crowdpac, a political fundraising organization he co-founded, following his support for Donald Trump.
In the U.S. House of Representatives, Katie Porter has made headlines for her confrontational style, particularly during her clashes with former Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Porter has emerged as a notable figure within the Democratic Party but faced criticism after a contentious interview with a television reporter. This incident has prompted rival candidates to question her temperament.
On the other end of the political spectrum, billionaire hedge fund manager Tom Steyer has re-entered the political arena after a failed presidential bid in 2020. Steyer’s previous campaigns saw him spend nearly $342 million but achieve limited success. His past investments have come under scrutiny, particularly regarding a controversial coal mine in Australia and a company managing migrant detention centers.
Other candidates include Tony Thurmond, California’s Superintendent of Public Instruction, who has faced allegations of mismanagement within the Department of Education but was reelected in 2022 despite criticism over his handling of schools during the COVID-19 pandemic. Former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa is also in the race, noted for his efforts to reduce violent crime and improve public transit, although he has faced personal scandals that have drawn national attention.
As the primary approaches, the candidates will need to navigate their pasts while presenting clear visions for California’s future. With the political climate shifting, voters will be looking for candidates who not only resonate with their values but also demonstrate integrity and capability in leading the state forward. The evolving landscape promises an engaging election season ahead, as these candidates vie for the opportunity to shape California’s governance in the coming years.
