By Watch World Media Staff
June 9, 2026
Sacramento, California — Republican candidate Steve Hilton has secured a place in California’s November gubernatorial election, setting up a closely watched general election battle against Democrat Xavier Becerra following Tuesday’s statewide primary.
With most ballots counted, election projections indicate that Becerra finished first in the crowded field, while Hilton successfully held onto second place, narrowly outperforming billionaire activist and businessman Tom Steyer. Under California’s top-two primary system, the two highest vote-getters advance to the general election regardless of party affiliation.
According to the latest reported results:
- Xavier Becerra (D): Approximately 27%
- Steve Hilton (R): Approximately 25%
- Tom Steyer (D): Approximately 22%
The outcome officially sets the stage for a high-profile November contest that will test whether voter frustration over affordability, housing, crime, and quality-of-life issues can overcome California’s longstanding Democratic advantage.
Hilton Emerges as GOP Standard-Bearer
Hilton, a former television host, author, and political commentator, built his campaign around a message of economic renewal and government reform.
Campaigning across the state, Hilton argued that California’s high taxes, rising cost of living, housing shortages, homelessness crisis, and public safety concerns require a dramatic shift in leadership.
His message resonated with voters seeking an alternative to what he describes as decades of one-party rule in Sacramento.
Hilton also received a significant boost from President Donald Trump’s endorsement, helping energize Republican voters and raise his statewide profile during the final months of the campaign.
Speaking to supporters after the results became clear, Hilton framed the election as a choice between maintaining the status quo and pursuing a new direction for California.
Becerra Claims Top Spot
Democratic candidate Xavier Becerra finished first in the primary after benefiting from strong support in California’s major metropolitan areas and among traditional Democratic voting blocs.
Becerra brings decades of political experience to the race, having served in Congress, as California Attorney General, and as U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services.
His campaign emphasized healthcare, climate policy, workers’ rights, and protecting California’s progressive agenda.
Political analysts note that Becerra enters the general election as the favorite, given California’s substantial Democratic voter registration advantage and the party’s dominance in statewide elections over the past two decades.
Steyer Falls Short Despite Massive Spending
One of the biggest surprises of the night was the apparent elimination of Tom Steyer.
The billionaire investor and activist invested heavily in his campaign, reportedly spending hundreds of millions of dollars in an effort to secure a place in the general election.
Despite the enormous financial commitment, Steyer struggled to gain enough momentum to overcome the established political networks and voter bases supporting both Becerra and Hilton.
His defeat underscores the challenges even well-funded candidates face in California’s highly competitive political environment.
A Battle Over California’s Future
The November election is expected to center on several key issues that continue to dominate political debate throughout the state:
- Housing affordability and rising living costs
- Crime and public safety
- Homelessness and mental health services
- Economic growth and job creation
- Education reform
- Energy and environmental policies
Hilton is expected to focus heavily on economic concerns and government accountability, while Becerra will likely emphasize experience, social programs, and protecting California’s progressive policy agenda.
Looking Ahead to November
While Democrats remain favored statewide, Hilton’s advancement ensures Republicans will have a prominent voice in the general election campaign.
The race will provide one of the clearest tests yet of whether growing dissatisfaction over affordability and quality-of-life issues is translating into meaningful political change among California voters.
Both campaigns are expected to ramp up fundraising, advertising, and voter outreach efforts in the months ahead as they compete for undecided voters across the nation’s most populous state.
The outcome could offer important insights into the future direction of California politics and the broader national political landscape heading into 2028.
WWM – Watch World Media will continue providing in-depth coverage, analysis, and updates throughout the California governor’s race.