2026 California Primary
California Governor
Katie Porter
DemocraticI’ve spent my entire career holding those in power accountable when they lie or break the rules. As Governor, I will go toe-to-toe with Donald Trump and anyone who tries to harm California families. As a Member of Congress, I took on billionaire CEOs and incompetent Trump officials, using a whiteboard to show the facts and expose corruption and cheating. I recovered billions for California homeowners when big banks ripped them off, forced drug companies to stop overcharging taxpayers, and made the Trump Administration deliver free COVID tests for everyone. Unlike most other Democrats, I refuse donations from corporations and lobbyists. Those special interests and PACs have too much power in Sacramento and are making California unaffordable for the rest of us. I cannot be bought, so you can count on me to bring down your costs, guarantee quality healthcare, and protect the environment. As the single mom of three kids, I personally push the grocery cart, fill the minivan gas tank, and pay the monthly bills. I have watched expenses like utilities and insurance go up and dollars not stretch as far, just like so many Californians. As your Governor, I will bring down costs for families and increase wages for workers. Here’s how: I will eliminate income taxes for Californians earning less than $100,000, build housing that workers can afford, stop charging tuition at our public universities, and make childcare free for all Californians. Learn more at KatiePorter.com.
Anne Komarovsk
No Party PreferenceHello Voter: Please-Help-Make-CaliforniA-Great-Again-Thank-You-NPP26.com HowTheWestWasOne.org
Betty Yee
DemocraticWe can’t fix the affordability crisis without a Governor who can fix the state budget. The ongoing budget problem is hurting investments in our schools, health care, housing, child care, seniors, and the environment. I am the only candidate who served as a state budget director, an elected member of the State Board of Equalization, and State Controller. I ruled against corporations and the wealthy, making sure they paid their fair share of taxes. I uncovered $7.3 billion in misspending. I never borrowed externally to pay the state’s bills. I protected the retirement funds for school employees. This is what hardworking Californians expect and deserve, an experienced leader who works for them. Every day, families make tough economic choices about what bills to pay and what to go without. I see this as I help families navigate elder care and child care needs. We can’t allow families to fall further behind. And we must not saddle the next generation with costs that will curtail their ability to succeed and thrive. We can, however, invest in our people, growing our economy by creating good-paying jobs in every corner of the state. Join the Progressive Democrats of America, Asian Americans and Pacifc Islanders Victory Fund, National Women’s Political Caucus of California, California Women’s List, Democratic Activists for Women Now, and local elected officials in supporting experienced, accountable leadership to make California add up for everyone. I respectfully ask for your vote.
Gary H. Kidgell
DemocraticLegacy builder delivering affordable solutions for everyday Californians’
Tony Thurmond
DemocraticBorn to an immigrant mother from Panama, Tony Thurmond and his brother were raised by a cousin they had never met after their mother died when Tony was just six years old. Growing up in poverty, Tony’s family relied on public assistance and great public schools to rise out of hardship, experiences that inspired his lifelong dedication to equity and opportunity for all Californians. He ultimately became a social worker, City Councilmember, School Board Member, Assemblymember, and eventually Superintendent of California’s $150 billion public school system. As State Superintendent, Tony sponsored a law to keep ICE out of California Schools. He helped create universal preschool for 4-year-olds, and universal meals for hungry kids. Thurmond helped pass billions in funds to make schools safer by removing asbestos and other toxins. Tony understands that our political system is broken. From skyrocketing costs of food and groceries to a federal government assaulting our civil liberties, our state is in a crisis. Meanwhile, the billionaires just get richer and richer. That’s why he’s fighting for a tax on billionaires, healthcare for all, abolishing ICE, 2 million new units of housing, finally fully funding our public schools, abortion care that is legal and accessible, getting weapons of war of of our streets, and protecting democracy. We need a leader who will stand up to the billionaires, to the federal government, and fight for everyday working-class Californians. We need Tony Thurmond. On June 2nd, vote Tony Thurmond for Governor. Visit tonythurmond.com.
Margaret Trowe
No Party PreferenceMargaret Trowe, five-decade member of Socialist Workers Party, is a hotel housekeeper, member of UNITE-HERE union. Organized solidarity, joined strikes of hotel, school, hospital workers. Calls for union-backed fight for amnesty for undocumented workers to build working-class unity. Longtime fighter against racism, for women’s rights and against Washington’s wars, from Vietnam to Venezuela. Defends Israel’s right to exist and defend itself. Stands against rising Jew-hatred. A supporter of the Cuban Revolution that brought working people to power. Says “U.S. Hands of Cuba! End U.S. Economic Blockade of Cuba!” Defends free speech, due process, other Constitutional protections. Campaigns for need for workers to take political power—the only solution to world capitalist economic, political, and moral crisis and the only way to stop the capitalist rulers’ march to World War III.
Elaine Culotti
No Party PreferenceCalifornians are tired of politics. They want solutions. I am running for Governor to unite California around practical results and restore the California dream. I believe in a simple promise: if you want a job in California, you should be able to find one here. Our state was built by entrepreneurs, small businesses, farmers, innovators, and workers willing to take risks and work hard. Government’s role is to create the conditions for opportunity, not stand in the way. Since 1991, I have built businesses and created jobs in California. I have traveled across our state meeting with mayors and local leaders from both parties. They all want the same fundamentals: safe streets, strong schools, thriving local economies, and accountability for taxpayer dollars. California should be the state of the future, not a state where families and employers feel forced to leave. Tax revenue is not a business model. Growth, innovation, and job creation are. My priorities are clear. Economic Development that streamlines regulation, supports small businesses, strengthens workforce training, and expands opportunity across every region. Health and Safety that funds proven mental health treatment, practical housing solutions, and accountable public safety. Power Back to the People by restoring local control, ending unfunded mandates, uncovering fraud, and ensuring full transparency in how tax dollars are spent. Together, we can rebuild opportunity and move forward as One California.
Christine R. Sarmiento
No Party PreferenceI am running for Governor of California to deliver competent, accountable leadership focused on results. As a nurse and operations manager, I’ve worked in high-pressure environments where errors have real consequences and accountability matters. I’m also a mother who worked full time while attending college—so I understand stress, sacrifice, and responsibility frsthand. California’s challenges are practical, not abstract. Affordability, public safety, access to healthcare, education, and infrastructure reliability affect families every day. The system isn’t broken, it’s ill. With proper steps we can make it a little better every day, and we will be well. I ask for your consideration and your trust to help move California forward.
Gretha Solorzano
RepublicanMy name is Gretha Solórzano. I am a UC Berkeley-trained scientist, a retired nuclear engineer, and a candidate for Governor of California. As a pragmatic moderate, I am committed to bridging political divides and uniting Californians—conservatives, liberals, and independents alike—around practical solutions that work. My mission is simple: make California affordable and sustainable again. I will strengthen our economy through strategic investments in advanced energy and water infrastructure, including redirecting the $32.7 billion we currently spend on foreign oil toward domestic production to improve energy security and keep jobs here at home. I will also tackle California’s housing shortage, and I will reverse the decline in our education system. With my technical expertise, fscal discipline, and results-oriented leadership, I will create jobs, lower utility costs, and deliver long-term growth for all Californians.
Derek Grasty
DemocraticI come from a working class community. I believe that everyone should have a good quality of life. That means affordable housing, a safe community and a quality education. My life experiences have taught me that anything is possible. My work across California as a teacher, principal and public servant supporting diverse communities, has prepared me to tackle statewide issues. Together, we will keep kidnappers (ICE) of our streets, make housing affordable for working families, first responders, teachers, frefghters, and nurses. Education will be supported with pre-school, reading specialists, and mental health counselors to help our students thrive. Let’s make California truly the Golden State. www.GrastyforGovernor.com
Chad Bianco
RepublicanMy name is Chad Bianco. I’m a husband, a father, and the Sherif of Riverside County. I didn’t rise through politics. I rose through public service. As Sherif, I lead one of the largest law enforcement agencies in California. We’ve reduced violent crime, stood up for victims, and supported the men and women who protect our communities. I’ve made hard decisions under pressure, in situations with real consequences. Leadership isn’t about slogans. When common sense fails, regular people pay the price. California is at a turning point. Too many families are struggling just to get by. Moms and dads are working longer hours and still falling behind. Jobs are leaving, pushing our children to look elsewhere for opportunity. Buying a home feels out of reach. Gas, groceries, and utilities cost more every month. People are doing everything right and still getting squeezed. As Governor, I will bring accountability and common sense back to state government. I will cut through bureaucracy that keeps families from rebuilding after wildfres. I will demand real results for the billions spent on homelessness, and end the cycle of spending without accountability. We may not agree on everything, but we all want the same basics: safe neighborhoods, opportunity for our kids, and a fair shot at getting ahead. As a husband, a father, and a Sherif, I know what responsibility means. I know what leadership is. I’ve seen the best and the worst, and I know we can do better. I’m asking for your vote.
Serge Fiankan
No Party PreferenceMy mission is to bring Californians together, across regions, backgrounds, and political lines, to build a state that works for the people who live here. I’m running to deliver practical, transparent, accountable leadership that puts solutions over ideology and people over politics. That means restoring trust in government, reforming systems that no longer serve us, and strengthening communities, from rural towns to major cities, so every Californian has opportunity, an affordable life, and a safe place to call home.
Daniel Mercuri
No Party PreferenceMy governorship will NOT be one to lead, but to serve all Californians. I’m a US Navy Veteran and native-born Californian armed with full knowledge and understanding of our Constitution to: investigate, indict, prosecute, and imprison corrupt bureaucrats, protect children from pedophiles and child sex trafckers, restrain school indoctrinators, refne student education, strengthen parental rights, end criminalizing victims and victimizing the criminal, prioritize the lawful citizen over the illegal, penalize government money laundering, end state tax on tips, retirement, property, and income while re-invigorating small businesses and stifing regulatory overreach. We’ll become energy independent, restrict CEQA, and provide medical freedom. The status of the people will remain above government at all times under my administration. This is your one chance to make a difference by voting outside the establishment picks. I will not fail you! www.danielforcalgovernor.com
Lewis Herms
No Party PreferenceBecoming Governor should be hard work because Californians deserve leaders who serve, not rule. As the “We The People Guy” I believe accountability and liberty must replace politics as usual. Career politicians have had their chance; it’s time to restore common sense and leadership that works for the people of California.
Jon Henderson
No Party PreferenceUnited we stand, divided we fall. California has never been more divided in our politics, and it is costing us time, money, and trust. I am Jon Henderson, and I am running for Governor as an Independent because California needs balance, not blame. Our state is too diverse, by region, race, income, age, and ideology, to be governed for only one side. I will govern for everyone who works hard, raises a family, runs a business, serves a community, or simply wants a fair shot. I believe in the Golden Rule for the Golden State. A proud product of California public schools, I have built multiple companies from nothing. I know how to set goals, measure results, and deliver. Government should operate under a fduciary standard, putting the public interest first. I will place my own assets in a blind trust, and I will push to require blind trusts for California lawmakers. Corruption and conficts of interest have gotten out of hand. If we remove the incentive to profit from public office, we can rebuild trust across party lines. My book, California 2.0: An Independent Vision for California’s Abundant Future, provides a blueprint with solutions to our biggest challenges, from housing and wildfres, using innovative technology that already exists. I am running for the majority of Californians in the middle who are sick of the extremes. If you believe our state deserves independent thinking, balance, and accountability over partisan loyalty, I would be honored to earn your vote.
Max Fomin
No Party PreferenceWill veto mileage tax, sufocate homelessness, assassinate unemployment, nuke crime, house the unhoused, prosecute corruption, generate $, like my cofee iced out.
Rafael M. Hernandez
RepublicanTo Me: The people of California Come First. My goals are: 1. Lower the high cost of living. 2. Create more good pay jobs. 3. Fix the homelessness crisis. 4. Build affordable homes.
Amanda Martin
No Party PreferenceMother, Builder, Entrepreneur solving California’s problems!
Matthew C. Levy
DemocraticMatthew Chase Levy is a California-based entrepreneur, internationally recognized scientist and running for Governor as a political outsider. He is the founder of NobleAI, a Science-Based AI platform that accelerates discovery and innovation in chemistry, materials, and energy sectors, and AE Blue Capital, a venture frm that backs fusion and other advanced clean-energy technologies critical to addressing California’s rising energy costs, grid reliability issues, and long-term decarbonization goals. His experience with these endeavors will drive practical solutions of societal problems, expand employment and maintain California’s preeminent role as a world leader in harnessing science for the beneft of all Californians. Levy holds a B.A. from UCLA and Master’s and Ph.D. degrees in physics from Rice University. While completing his doctorate, he conducted research at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory on U.S. strategic security. This led to him becoming the first American physicist awarded the Isaac Newton International Fellowship by the Royal Society at Oxford University. Early international experience in Tokyo—before and during his UCLA years—combined with his work in the UK, gives him a unique perspective on global innovation and the challenges facing California families. Levy is a Fellow at Wolfson College, Oxford; a Trustee of The Washington Institute; and serves on the Finance Committee for the Mayor of Oakland and former Congresswoman Barbara Lee. Levy resides in Oakland with his wife Debbie Senesky, a Stanford professor, and her 12-year-old daughter. www.Matthewchaselevy.com
Joseph Cabrera
No Party PreferenceCalifornia was built on a promise: that through hard work and innovation, any citizen could build a prosperous life. Today, that promise is fading under partisan gridlock and a $31 billion transportation budget that leaves our roads crumbling. I am running for Governor to provide the “Independent Fix” our state desperately needs. Sacramento politicians are asking for new taxes, but their own budget—Schedule 11—shows they are sitting on $30.1 billion in unspent, voter-approved bond money. We have nearly $500 million for traffic reduction sitting idle since 2006. As a business owner, I know you don’t ask for a new credit card when you haven’t used the one in your pocket. We must also confront our humanitarian crises. Homelessness, plummeting school performance, and our mental health crisis are all symptoms of the same failed bureaucracy. For too long, we have used our jails as warehouses for the mentally ill while allowing our streets to become encampments. I will shift resources away from bloat and into community treatment, focusing on recovery instead of a revolving prison door. Finally, we must restore and revamp the Donahoe Higher Education Act. I will return our public universities to the merit-based, accessible model that once made California the envy of the world. By auditing “ghost projects” and redirecting interest savings, we can fund our schools and clinics without raising your taxes. I am an independent uniter from the Inland Empire, not a career politician. I respectfully ask for your vote to fix California.
Frederic C. Schultz
No Party PreferencePlease elect me governor, to save our rights/lives. We’re in an Emergency: I’ll declare a State of Emergency, to save us! Murderous government thugs kill us daily, for the “crimes” of seeking asylum, documenting attacks, protesting. California arrests 800,000 annually, most for unconstitutional victimless/consensual “crimes”, enslaving 200,000 daily, without telling jurors we can always vote “not guilty”. “Drug” prohibition/ regulation causes trillions in medical costs, murders, poverty worldwide, making millions refugees, torturing sick people to death. Millions Americans homeless, half destitute. We’ll tax 5% wealth over $10,000,000 and income over $1,000,000, yielding $1,100,000,000,000 annually, retroactively even. Rent freeze! No lockdowns or forced vaccinations: optional and real food instead! I support school choice and oppose reverse discrimination: equal opportunity instead. We’ll increase California State Guard from 900 to 2,000,000, one per classroom, stopping most murders, including by ICE nationwide, preventing martial law, closing slavery/death camps, pardoning innocent slaves! We’ll enforce bodily autonomy rights, to abortion, assisted suicides and guns. Human rights to housing ($10,000 homes), living wages, jobs, income, higher/trade education, healthcare (nationwide), food (worldwide), childcare, public transport without deadly high speed trains. Free utilities/gasoline, but save environment. We’ll ban pesticides, factory farms, “autonomous” vehicles. No sales taxes or income taxes under $100,000! We’ll enforce our rights to democracy: Equal vote and chance to serve (publicly fnanced elections). Privacy rights: No mass surveillance, “Flock” spying cameras. Carina Sanchez Lieutenant Governor, Dan Kapelovitz Attorney General. Free the People! #Fred4CA.com!
Don J. Grundmann
No Party PreferenceNo Photograph Kirk murdered by shaped-charge bomb Israel used. Government knows. YouTube—Why Submitted Kirk had to die. Israel murdered Liberty sailors. Israel “art students” wired Twin Towers for 9/11.controlled demolition. Planes did NOT destroy towers. Israel did. 3,000 murdered to create new “Pearl Harbor” to justify fighting wars for Israel. “Dancing Israelis” (Mossad agents) prove knowledge of attack. Government knows. Israel (our greatest enemy), NOT Iran, will suitcase nuke U S. via “Samson Option”—false fag attack to blame on Iran/Russia and permanently end our nation. Israel, the REAL terrorists, created and funds Hamas via Qatar. Countless war crimes by lsrael/ Netanyahu. No further funding for Israel. They call Palestinians AND Christians AND America “Amalek”—their sworn forever enemy. We are “goyim” (less than human animals/cattle) that they will enslave. We are stupid chumps. Israel rules our conquered Republic. Talmud—their Bible—says Christ boiling in in Israel allowed/planned/promoted Hamas attack (they murdered their own people) to justify genocide and steal billion$ in Gaza oil/gas rights. Christian Zionism = soul poison. Talmudic “Judeo-Christian values” don’t exist . . . DestroyTheZOG.org. Constitution Party of California, state afliate Christian Nationalist Party. CNParty.org.—developing. Fight-the-Power.org. CPofCA.org. StopNumber24.org. Nationalize FED. Print interest free United States Notes. Freedom Law School $300,000 challenge. BlackGenocide.org. Planned Parenthood murdered 20 MILLION blacks = REAL “White Supremacy.”, HenryMakow.com. NationalStraightPrideCoalition.org. Gtvfyers.com
Randeep S. Dhillon
RepublicanI am Dr. Randeep S Dhillon, an economist and finance professional, running for Governor of California to provide practical leadership focused on affordability, public safety, and long-term economic security. California’s challenges affect every community. Families face high living costs, farmers need reliable water, small businesses struggle with rising expenses, and neighborhoods want safety restored. These challenges require balanced, economically sound solutions guided by facts and accountability. My professional background includes economics, finance, healthcare innovation, and large-scale operations. I believe government must be fscally responsible, transparent, and focused on results. Financial stability strengthens families, supports communities, & restores confdence in institutions. As Governor, I will protect California agriculture by ensuring fair, reliable, and affordable water, including consistent pricing across water districts so farmers can plan, invest, and produce. Rural communities must be treated as partners in California’s future. Energy affordability matters to households and businesses alike. I support responsible California crude oil production alongside renewable energy development to stabilize fuel costs, protect jobs, and reduce dependence on foreign energy. California must also lead in technology. I will support California-owned operating systems, software, and hardware so innovation, jobs, and data remain here. I will stand with small businesses by reducing regulations and expanding access to capital so entrepreneurs can grow and hire. Public safety is fundamental. Shoplifting of any amount is a crime, and laws must be enforced fairly. I support women’s economic advancement, solutions to veteran homelessness through housing and employment, and frm action against illegal drugs.
Scott P. Shields
DemocraticVisit ShieldsForGovernor.com
Naomi Bar-Lev
No Party PreferenceThe party system has defnitively failed us. Media’s incomplete reporting, unforgivable. My background includes a BA in Economics, UCLA, real estate broker for 20 plus years, construction experience, vice president, managing hundreds of loan officers and agents, to a robust Airbnb business. Improvements were made to my property to double the business’s income, the very year vandalism and espionage against me began. Survival of continued attacks has enlightened me! I wrote a primer about the tyranny that has taken over, its explosive corruption, its use of police, the courts, technology, corporatism (https://www.linkedin.com/in/naomi-bar-lev-56b894346). Big tech partnerships now are violating civil and consumer rights as well as anti-trust law. At the center are fusion centers, hubs of information and military grade technology—6 centers statewide run by “local police”. They have connected all devices, espionage made possible against the individual and business, which has transformed the courts. I am no friend to politicians. As governor, fusion centers will be for serious investigations of fraud, theft, and waste, a healthy revenue source with a leaner budget. Police will return to neighborhoods, fighting crime, taking reports equally among citizens, using a constitutionally compliant database. Phones and devices will be recalled, past services refunded, phone, alarm systems, wif . . . “Partnerships” and non-disclosure agreements in government will be eliminated. A hiring spree to stock consumer and civil rights agencies, local and state leaders replaced by public servants. No sales, income, or property tax. Parking fees and permit fees will be eliminated.
Duane T. Loynes Jr.
No Party PreferenceThe American Solidarity Party platform emphasizes the need to uphold the dignity of the human person from conception to natural death, which includes the unborn, the mother in the crisis pregnancy, the immigrant, documented or undocumented, children at risk of being deprived of their mother or father, the elderly or sick who are at risk of being pressured to end their own lives, the worker struggling to support the family or to buy a home, the homeless person who does not have shelter and is estranged from family. If you agree with the need to uphold this dignity with policies for the common good, make the decision today to register with the American Solidarity Party by following the instructions here https://ca.solidarity-party.org/learn_more/register-to-vote/
Erin "Zez" Zezulak
DemocraticHello Californians, I’m Erin Zez Zezulak, RN, IBCLC, MPH, a nurse, educator, small- business owner, consultant, and mom. I was born, raised, and educated in California. My school-teacher Democrat mother and my wildlife biologist, Republican, avid hunter father gave my sisters and me a multidimensional outlook of California. Following the animals my father studied, I have lived in many beautiful State and National Parks in California, as well as with my grandparents in the Los Angeles and San Francisco Bay areas. I know California. Working with patients and families in the California medical system for nearly 30 years has helped me plan for a unified, equitable healthcare system for all people living in California. Equity for all Californians extends to education, safety, and protection. We all must be protected from discrimination and unconstitutional practices. ICE will not be permitted in California using its present tactics. Working with my grandfather, a building contractor, helped me see how to maximize our cities, enabling affordable housing for all. Living in agricultural communities has inspired my water management plans to eliminate the drought/food cycle that impacts California’s farming, economy, and communities. As a pilot in training, I planned strategies for fighting wildfres from the air and for early fire detection to mitigate wildfre destruction. I know California. I will work to build a better California for all as your next Governor. Thank you for your vote.
Raji Rab
DemocraticCalifornia faces 20B defcit, affordability crisis. Solution is additional revenue, space age advancement not reversing back to basics. I’m the only candidate with Now Plan bringing billions in global investment, balance budget, surplus for all departments, manufacture low-cost meds and multifamily housing, ease regulations, lower taxes, universal healthcare, 1.5 million jobs in first year. I’m an aviator, educator, entrepreneur, owned operated airline, mentored students, served civil rights, support immigration Amnesty. www.rajirabforgovernor.com
Ramsey Robinson
Peace and FreedomI’m fighting for a California for the People, not the Billionaires. California’s 194 billionaires hoard more wealth than 27 million of us. That’s not an accident—it’s a rigged system. We make California rich, but can’t afford rent, medicine, or decent schools for our kids because billionaires extract the wealth we create. Our socialist campaign demands guaranteed housing capped at 20% of income, free healthcare, free childcare and union jobs at minimum $30/hour with a guaranteed dignifed retirement. Stop deportations, abolish ICE! I’m fighting for socialism—a system where we working people have the political and economic power to meet our needs. Together we will end billionaire rule once and for all. Vote Socialist! Vote leftunityslate.org. Register Peace & Freedom Party.
Akinyemi Agbede
DemocraticEmpowering California’s future visit my website at www.thenextgovernorofcalifornia2026.net.
LivingForGod A. DeMott
No Party PreferenceMy Legal Name LivingForGod Means: Living A Life Refecting The Good Character of Jesus Christ; it is my foundation, my operating system, and compass. As a chaplain it is my opinion that any success built on the foundation of deceit and corruption is like building a castle on the sand. So when the storm screams against the windshield, I will not finch! When it comes to the kind of turbulence that brings planes down, I will be the pilot who punches through the storm so the passengers (You the People) can breathe again. As a successful business man I built Big Time Pest Control from the ground up, then sold it trading upper management to serve as a chaplain, in the trenches, kneeling hand-in-hand, with the forgotten, and the broken. My heritage is a map of U.S. American grit, stretching from Samuel Fuller, the Doctor of the Mayfower to the lightning rod of Ben Franklin. But I’m not looking back—I’m looking forward to all of California, where people are feeling abandoned and betrayed! I have a plan to STOP illegal ICE operations; and a chaplain’s heart to remember who the system serves. I’m 100% against the miles-driven tax. To Make California Great Again, PROTECT THE PEOPLE! As the old parties are debating the heat over who bought the matches, while the dumpster fire burns; I’m handing you a fire extinguisher! That’s why I am the best choice for Governor of California. • www.DeMottForGovernor.com
Satish Rao
DemocraticEfficient, efective, and humane. That’s the test. Every policy helps some and hurts others, so discussion is necessary—and hard. Too often tribalism, power, and narrow incentives decide the outcome. Education makes it plain. California has failed vulnerable students at a basic task: learning to read. Meanwhile, places we’re taught to dismiss have done better. The genius stroke? Words are made of letters— fundamentals, not magic. Arithmetic is not a hate crime. Yet in California, basics are treated like villains and complexity like virtue: a thousand-page, state-approved physics book that’s great for strong backs and publisher margins, but essentially unread. The people who oversaw failure still control the institutions. That’s not a conspiracy; it’s bureaucracy. In universities, power concentrates in administration, and budgets follow power. At the University of California, Berkeley—where I work—non-academic staff compensation alone runs north of $30,000 per student. That’s before you pay a single instructor, professor, TA, tutor, reader, lab assistant, or researcher. And it doesn’t stop at bloat. In California, there is a regulation for every problem—and too often it fails to solve it while creating new ones. Governor Newsom tries—hair always in place. Still, he governs in a dishonest system that rewards the loudest interests and the fanciful promises they sell. California is rich in people, place, and position. Let’s get out of our own way: do what works, stop what doesn’t, and treat people with decency.
California Lieutenant Governor
David Fennell
RepublicanHi California! David Fennell is running for Lieutenant Governor to restore the state’s greatness! California has always symbolized the American Dream, but over the past 20 years, we’ve seen that dream slip away due to failed leadership in Sacramento. We need new solutions, not more of the same. Why can’t we build affordable homes, start new businesses, or provide for our families? Why are tech companies leaving for Texas, movies being flmed overseas, and our farmers struggling for water? Our streets are unsafe, and our forests are burning. The problem is clear: bad leadership. As your Lieutenant Governor, I will take action. I’ll lead audits to eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse in Sacramento, ensuring your tax dollars are spent wisely. I’ll work on the State Lands Commission and other boards to ensure farmers get the water they need and to manage our resources, preventing and rebuilding from wildfres. I’ll fight for quality education that prepares our students for California’s future. With my background in business, farming, and tech, I’m ready to bring a real-world approach to Sacramento and lead California back to prosperity. Vote for David Fennell for Lieutenant Governor! I won’t let you down! Learn more at https://www.fennellforcalifornia.com
Josh Fryday
DemocraticI’m a Navy veteran, former mayor, and a Member of the Governor’s Cabinet. I’m a dad with three kids in public school, married to a second grade public school teacher—and proud to be the only candidate endorsed by both unions representing California’s teachers and educators. I’m running because we need a new generation of Democrats to be tougher and stronger—to stop Donald Trump and greedy corporations hurting Californians. As a JAG Officer in the Navy, I stood up for the Rule of Law, defended detainees, and testifed before Congress against human rights abuses at Guantanamo Bay. As the only veteran running, I have the experience to lead California’s fight against Trump’s misuse of our national guard and military—and protect our families, neighbors, and democracy from Trump’s ICE army. On the Coastal Commission and State Lands Commission, I will stop Trump and Big Oil from new of-shore oil drilling. By doubling our production of clean energy, we’ll cut pollution and reduce energy costs to save you money. Born and raised in California, my family moved 17 times before I graduated high school. Our housing and cost of living crisis is personal to me. I will take on the tough fights career politicians won’t—to protect our democracy and make California more affordable for working families like mine. I’d be honored to have your vote. Learn more about my housing, energy, and jobs plans for California at www.joshfryday.com.
Fiona Ma
DemocraticCalifornia stands at a crossroads in America’s history. We need clear-eyed, proven leaders willing to stand tall and fight on behalf of every Californian. Defending California’s values and people—especially women and immigrants—will be my top priority as your Lieutenant Governor. I’m the daughter of immigrants and there’s no place for fear or intimidation in our state. I’ll protect birthright citizenship from Trump’s attacks, and hold ICE accountable for excessive violence. I’ve spent my life in public service standing up for women. As California State Treasurer, I funded reproductive health, birth control, and cancer screenings when Trump cut Title X funding. As Assemblywoman, I chaired the Select Committee on Domestic Violence to protect survivors. The Lieutenant Governor serves on the Coastal Commission and Boards of UC and CSU. I will fight Trump’s plan to reopen ofshore drilling, while defending universities and protecting academic freedom. I’ll vote to freeze tuition so middle-class families can afford college. My mother was a public school teacher. That’s why I’m committed to delivering a quality education to every California student. We live in an unprecedented moment—and California must chart the path forward—a future that embraces a shared belief in a better California for all. Join us, California Professional Firefghters, California Federation of Teachers, National Union of Healthcare Workers, Building Trades, Carpenters, Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis and more than 30 labor unions in our campaign at www.fonama.com. I love California and I humbly ask for your vote for Lieutenant Governor.
Tim Myers
DemocraticI’m Tim Myers, President of Californians For Climate Change, a co-founder and former member of the multi-platinum band OneRepublic, and a creator behind 16 gold and platinum albums. I studied at Harvard and have spent my life at the intersection of creativity, activism, and public service. As an activist, I’ve led anti-Trump and anti-ICE protest rallies across California. I’ve stood on the front lines while snipers were aimed and rubber bullets were fired. I put my life on the line because I believe in justice, equality, and the power of people rising together. I grew up poor and went on to build Palladium Records, creating hundreds of jobs and opportunities for artists and working families. Today, I’m a husband and father of two girls, and my fight is deeply personal. I want my children and every California family to inherit a state that is safe, affordable, and full of possibility. I’m running on a people first platform focused on affordability, cleaning up homelessness, bringing tech jobs back, lowering costs, reducing crime, and raising wages. I proudly helped pass Proposition 28, expanding music and arts education in our public schools. I have taken zero PAC money because public service should never be bought. Career politicians have lost touch. Corruption must end. My viral message has reached over 16 million Californians ready for change. I won’t watch more families get pushed out. Together, we rise and take back California for future generations and working families statewide.
Alice Stek
Peace and FreedomPhysician, educator, and socialist. In my ongoing 32-year career as an OBGYN and HIV specialist within California’s failing healthcare system, I’m continuously afrmed that socialism is the only cure for capitalism. Let’s build a California for the People, not the billionaires! Vote Socialist and support the Left Unity Slate!
Michael Tubbs
DemocraticI’m running for Lieutenant Governor to make California more affordable and prove that government can deliver results, not just make promises. I grew up poor, raised by a single mom. My family and community taught me resilience and service—values that helped me attend Stanford and be elected Mayor of Stockton at the age of 26. I took office when Stockton was in crisis—just years after bankruptcy. Working with our community, I charted a new path. Thanks to partnerships with police, we cut homicides by 40% and achieved the state’s largest decline in officer-involved shootings. Unemployment hit near record lows. Stockton was named the state’s second most fscally healthy city. I launched a guaranteed income pilot that lifted people out of poverty and has been emulated by over 150 cities. California faces serious challenges: too much talk, and not enough action. As Lieutenant Governor, I’ll focus relentlessly on affordability: I’ll fight to lower the cost of higher education—whether vocational programs or college. I’ll introduce outside-the-box ideas to build affordable housing so Californians can stay in the state we love. And I’ll champion proven solutions like guaranteed income programs to end poverty and prevent homelessness. I’ll use the office to drive accountability and accelerate solutions that work. I’m honored to have the endorsements of SEIU California, California Working Families Party, and leaders across the state who believe California needs leaders who know how to govern—and deliver. My vision is simple: a California that works for everyone. michaeltubbsforca.com
Ebbie Lynch
RepublicanAdvocate, Veteran, Nurse. California First! (Learn more) www.ebielynchforcalifornia.com
Janelle Kellman
DemocraticJanelle Kellman is a climate risk expert, local community leader, and disaster preparedness non-profit executive focused on solving the high cost-of-living crisis facing California. As an environmental lawyer with climate risk expertise, Janelle founded the Center for Sea Rise Solutions to help governments and local communities reduce economic risk from wildfres, fooding, and extreme weather—instead of passing on the costs of disasters to taxpayers. As a local community leader and Mayor of Sausalito, Janelle has led responses to fooding, sea level rise, and wildfres— securing millions of dollars to strengthen local infrastructure, which led to lower homeowner insurance premiums. Rather than waiting for someone else to act on homelessness, as Mayor, she declared a state of emergency for a local encampment and led a humanitarian response to move people into housing. Local homelessness has since dropped by more than half. California’s Lieutenant Governor helps direct educational, environmental, and economic policy statewide. Janelle will: 1. Use her climate expertise to cut electricity bills in half over the next decade by changing how fire prevention is funded; 2. Invest in disaster-preparedness programs to stabilize the insurance market; and 3. Expand vocational and career-aligned education in our community colleges so that every student can contribute to California’s climate tech, housing, service, and skilled trades. Resulting in cutting electricity bills, slashing home insurance costs, and making community colleges free for all California residents. JanelleKellman.com
California Attorney General
Michael Gates
RepublicanCalifornia families deserve to be safe again. Crime is rising, homelessness is out of control, fraud with taxpayer dollars is rampant, and our children—especially young girls—are not being protected. The Office of Attorney General should be focused on enforcing the law and keeping families safe, not playing politics. I’m a husband and father of five, and like every parent, I want our children to grow up in safe communities. That’s why public safety has always been my top priority. As the City Attorney for Huntington Beach, I fought for the people. I created a city criminal prosecutor program that prosecuted quality-of-life crimes and reduced crime by double digits. We proved that when the law is enforced, communities thrive. As Attorney General, I will make crime illegal again by prosecuting all crimes, including enforcing Proposition 36, and use the law to address homelessness by holding criminals accountable while getting people of our streets and into treatment. I will stand up for police, support law enforcement and defend them when they are unfairly attacked. I will also bring proven programs that lowered crime and homelessness in Huntington Beach to cities across California. I will aggressively prosecute fraud and corruption in Sacramento, protect parents’ rights, enforce laws that keep boys out of girls’ sports and support Voter ID. This is a serious office. I will fight for everyday Californians and bring accountability and safety back to California. Learn more at www.Gates4AG.com.
Marjorie Mikels
GreenI’m an Attorney, UCLA Law Doctorate, licensed to practice in California, Ninth Circuit and United States Supreme Court, endorsed by the Left Unity Slate and Green Party. Championing Justice and Accountability, my Priorities: Uphold Democracy and Prosecute Human Rights Violations; Protect Free Speech/Stop Censorship, in classrooms/everywhere; Restrict Big Tech’s Take-over of Media and our Lives; Enforce Rapid Transition from Fossil Fuels/Nuclear to Clean Renewables; Further Genuine Security for ALL People, ALL Rights; Promote Universal Healthcare, Taxes on Billionaires, and reduced military expenditures to End Poverty; Stop ICE and Imperialism; Fight Fascism! More inspiration: <marjoriemikels4justice.com>