Steve Hilton Leads California Governor's Race Polls, Swalwell and Bianco Close Behind

California Governor's Race Poll Results

• 📊 An exclusive poll from Emerson College and Inside California Politics shows Republican Steve Hilton leading the crowded 2026 California governor's race with 17%.
• 🎯 Democrat Rep. Eric Swalwell and Republican Sheriff Chad Bianco are closely trailing, tied at 14%.
• 💡 The poll surveyed 1,000 likely California voters, with over 21% still undecided just over 3 months before the June 2nd primary.

Candidate Performance and Strategy

• 🚀 Steve Hilton has gained significant momentum, doubling his vote share since December, partly due to pouring over $27 million of his own money into the campaign.
• ⚠️ Democratic candidate Katie Porter is in 4th place, and political analysts suggest she needs to work aggressively to win over undecided voters, as her likability factor is currently not high.
• 📈 Newcomer San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan, a Democrat, is not yet translating enthusiasm into votes, possibly due to entering the race late.

Primary Election Dynamics

• ⚖️ The top two candidates in the June 2nd primary will advance to the November general election, regardless of party affiliation.
• 🧐 There is a mathematical possibility of two Republicans advancing to the general election, but Democratic party strategists are expected to intervene to ensure one of their candidates makes the runoff.
• 🏆 The candidate who secures a spot in the runoff is considered likely to win the general election.