California Gubernatorial Race Narrows Down
The crowded race for California’s governor has shifted dramatically, initially featuring 61 candidates but now focusing on three main contenders: Xavier Becerra, a former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary, climate advocate Tom Steyer, and Steve Hilton, a former Fox News host and small business owner, representative of the Republican Party.
A recent statement highlights the urgency within the Republican party: “If we don’t come together, Becerra and Steyer could likely advance to the general election.” It’s worth noting that California’s primary elections allow the top two candidates to progress, regardless of their political affiliations.
For a while, it seemed possible that two Republicans, Hilton and Sheriff Chad Bianco from Riverside County, might make it to the general election because Democrats were struggling to rally behind one candidate.
As the election approaches in less than a month, polls show that about 26% of voters remain undecided, with a noticeable divide among Democratic candidates. However, the latest polls indicate a decrease in undecided voters and an uptick in support for Becerra, leading to a tight race between Steyer and Hilton, while Bianco’s support appears to be waning.
In an Emerson College public opinion poll conducted May 27-28, only 4% were undecided, with 28% favoring Becerra, 22% leaning towards Steyer, 21% for Hilton, and 12% for Bianco. Another poll from the University of California, Berkeley, conducted between May 19 and 24, showed similar results, with Becerra at 25%, Hilton at 21%, Steyer at 19%, and Bianco at 11%.
In light of these developments, Hilton has called for Bianco to exit the race, urging his supporters to unite behind him to prevent two Democrats from advancing. “These polls are concerning,” he mentioned in a video recently posted on social media. “If we don’t unite as a party, Becerra and Steyer could win in the general election—a situation that would be disastrous for California.” He added that the best time for Bianco to withdraw would’ve been weeks ago, but now is also a crucial moment.
However, Bianco responded dismissively to Hilton’s remarks, suggesting instead that supporters rally behind him. “Steve Hilton’s backers should come collaborate with me,” he stated.
