California’s 2026 primary hints at November clashes in governor’s race and party splits

Early returns from California’s 2026 primaries point to a governor’s race between Republican Steve Hilton and Democrat Xavier Becerra, with Tom Steyer trailing; results won’t be certified for weeks. The contest also shows intra-Democratic tensions between establishment figures and progressive challengers in several House races, including Matsui vs. Vang and Bains vs. Villegas. In Prop. 50–drawn districts, Kevin Kiley leads District 6, while Northern California’s District 1 continues to unfold with Gallagher leading the special and McGuire favored for the general. Statewide incumbents are ahead in their races, and Davis Measure V drew opposition in early returns as ballots continue to be counted.