San Jose’s Mayor Matt Mahan might not be a household name in California’s closely contested gubernatorial race, but he compensates for that with substantial campaign funding and a surprisingly effective governing style.
It’s probably no shock that at just 43 years old, he could potentially take on the role of governor in a few years.
Mahan’s political journey is rapid—he transitioned from a first-term city councilor to mayor of San Jose in 2021. As mayor, he’s been vocal in critiquing Governor Gavin Newsom’s constant self-promotion. He also backed Proposition 36, a strong stance against crime, and contends that homeless shelters should serve as temporary solutions rather than the end target.
A married father of two, Mahan promotes himself as a “back-to-basics” leader, centering on public safety, affordable housing, and government integrity.
One significant appeal for voters is his independence from the entrenched Democratic Party leadership, although he still boasts an important network. Formerly a tech entrepreneur, he relishes the unofficial title of the mayor from the “Capitol of Silicon Valley.” He stands against the divisive billionaire tax, receiving praise from prominent figures in both tech and real estate in California.
Los Angeles tycoon Rick Caruso, who referred to Mahan as a “good friend,” commended his steady governance approach. “Matt is a pragmatic moderate with innovative ideas,” Caruso tweeted. “He has the experience California needs to steer back on course. I’ve encouraged him to run, and I’m delighted to see him in the race.”
Garry Tan, CEO of startup accelerator Y Combinator, remarked that Mahan isn’t just another standard politician, hinting at criticisms of Newsom and other prominent Democrats looking at the governorship. “He’s a former startup founder, leading Silicon Valley’s largest city and actually delivering results,” Tan noted on social media.
However, Mahan’s candidacy is just beginning, and it doesn’t guarantee success in the upcoming June primary. For now, he remains relatively unknown among Democratic candidates. Still, his presence might actually help Republicans, who haven’t held the governor’s office since Arnold Schwarzenegger’s departure in 2011.
Recent polls indicate that two Republicans, former Fox News host Steve Hilton and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, are hovering near the top of a rather uninspiring group of Democratic contenders, which includes Reps. Eric Swalwell and Katie Porter.
If numerous Democrats remain in the race, there’s a chance they could cannibalize each other’s votes, potentially allowing Republicans to regain control of California’s governorship.
Larry Gerston, emeritus political science professor at San Jose State, believes Mahan has smartly positioned himself apart from the “left-leaning candidates,” while recognizing the challenge posed by so many Democrats seeking the same seat.
“Mahan’s strategy may resonate not only with Democrats but also with the 30 percent of registered voters who identify as independents,” Gerston explained. “Since Democrats don’t allow voters from other parties to participate in their primaries, Mahan might be perceived as a refreshing, non-partisan alternative.”
A key factor in Mahan’s appeal among Democrats and independents is his distinct approach to politics compared to the current governor. By emphasizing San Jose’s achievements in addressing homelessness and crime, he has spent time differentiating himself from other Democrats by openly criticizing Newsom’s social media behavior aimed at young people opposing President Trump.
“You can’t just be against something,” Mahan stated on social media. “We need to advocate for a government that can effectively tackle the challenges working people face again.”
