Governor
California · November 3, 2026
California voters will choose a governor for a 4-year term. Governor Gavin Newsom is term-limited and cannot run again, creating an open seat for one of the nation's largest and most watched gubernatorial races.
Candidates
Gavin Newsom (D) has served as Governor of California since 2019. He previously served as Lieutenant Governor of California and Mayor of San Francisco, and is term-limited and cannot run again in 2026. Stated priorities include climate policy, health care, and homelessness.
Sources: Ballotpedia; National Governors Association.
California's 2026 open governor's race is expected to attract a large Democratic primary field and a competitive Republican candidate. No major candidates have formally announced as of mid-2025, but several prominent California Democrats are expected to run.