The essentials
Becerra and Hilton advance to California's gubernatorial general election after the primary.
California's gubernatorial general election is now set with Xavier Becerra and Steve Hilton advancing from the primary. Becerra secured 27.9% of the primary vote, while Hilton garnered 25%, positioning them as the top two finishers in the jungle primary system.
Tom Steyer finished third despite investing over $213 million in his campaign, the majority directed toward advertising. Several other candidates withdrew from the race, including Matt Mahan, Antonio Villaraigosa, and Katie Porter, consolidating the field ahead of the general election.
President Trump endorsed Steve Hilton during the primary campaign, providing national backing to the Republican nominee. The general election matchup presents a stark political contrast, with Becerra positioning himself as a counterweight to Trump while Hilton carries the former president's endorsement into the November race.
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Top two finishers emerge from crowded gubernatorial primary field
Becerra secured 27.9% and Hilton 25% in California's jungle primary, advancing to the general election. The primary results demonstrated how the nonpartisan system produces top-two finishers regardless of party affiliation. Steyer's $213 million investment did not translate to advancement, illustrating that spending alone does not guarantee electoral success in California's competitive environment.
General election shapes up as ideological contrast between candidates
Becerra has positioned himself against Trump's influence, while Hilton carries the former president's explicit endorsement. The matchup reflects broader California political dynamics, with Republican candidates facing structural disadvantages in the Democratic-leaning state where no Republican has won statewide office in two decades. The general election campaign now centers on these contrasting political visions.