Everything to know about the California 2026 primary
Ballots for the June 2 primary are arriving in mailboxes across Sacramento and California. While some high-profile races are drawing broad attention, much of what’s on the ballot is closer to home, including legislative seats, school boards and local measures that could influence public policy for years. Statewide, certain races could redefine the political landscape because of Proposition 50’s passage. This guide breaks down the major races and issues, offering context and key details to help you make informed choices before Election Day.
Statewide races
Governor
Eight major candidates are competing in a crowded, high-stakes race to replace Gov. Gavin Newsom. A late-stage debate and recent shakeups could reshape the volatile field before voting begins.
Lt. Governor
Five viable candidates with low name recognition are vying in the primary for lieutenant governor, a largely ceremonial role. Fundraising strength and high-profile endorsements could determine which two hopefuls advance.
Secretary of State
The Secretary of State race features an incumbent Democrat with a clear advantage in a heavily blue state. The office oversees elections and business filings, and has served as a springboard to higher office.
Attorney General
Three candidates are competing to become California’s attorney general, the state’s top law enforcement official. The position carries broad legal authority and frequently places its holder at the center of major political and policy fights.
State Treasurer
Six candidates are running for state treasurer, who manages California’s finances and investment portfolios. The next officeholder will help navigate budget deficits and fund major infrastructure and public programs.
State Controller
Incumbent controller Malia Cohen faces two challengers in a low-profile race. The office oversees state spending, audits agencies and will confront payroll system issues.
State Superintendent of Public Instruction
Eight candidates are competing for state superintendent of public instruction, a nonpartisan role shaping education policy. The next schools chief could see the job’s authority reduced under a proposed overhaul by Newsom.
Insurance Commissioner
More than 10 candidates are competing for insurance commissioner, a high-pressure role overseeing a troubled market. Frustration over rising costs and coverage gaps has made it one of the most crowded statewide races.
Board of Equalization, 1st District
Voters will choose a new Board of Equalization member for a sprawling district covering much of inland California. The board retains a limited tax oversight role, and one candidate holds a clear fundraising edge.
Congress
5th House District
Three Democrats are competing to challenge longtime Republican Rep. Tom McClintock in a right-leaning district. The incumbent holds a clear fundraising advantage in a race shaped by redistricting.
9th House District
Incumbent Rep. Josh Harder is heavily favored in a newly redrawn Central Valley district, facing Republican challengers for a seat that's expected to remain safely Democratic after recent boundary changes.
13th House District
Incumbent Rep. Adam Gray faces two Republican challengers in a closely watched Central Valley swing district. Despite a Democratic tilt after redistricting, the race remains competitive and nationally targeted.
Legislature
4th Senate District
Incumbent Marie Alvarado-Gil, now a Republican, faces a competitive challenge from within her party and a Democratic contender in a GOP-leaning Sierra district. Her party switch, and fundraising gaps, have shaped the race.
9th Assembly District
Incumbent Republican Heath Flora faces multiple challengers in a Central Valley district, including a rival with strong endorsements from within the GOP.
22nd Assembly District
Republican Assemblymember Juan Alanis is running unopposed for another term, backed by strong fundraising and a law enforcement background he emphasizes in Sacramento.
Local races
Board of Supervisors, 3rd District
Stanislaus County Supervisor Terry Withrow is running unopposed for a fifth term, continuing a long tenure marked by work on water, transportation and behavioral health issues.
Board of Supervisors, 4th District
An appointed incumbent faces a first-time challenger in Stanislaus County’s District 4, where Supervisor Mani Grewal seeks a full term against community advocate Jennifer “Rally” Valenzuela.
Salida Measure J
Voters will decide whether to approve a new parcel tax to bolster fire protection, as officials warn current staffing levels are no longer sustainable.
This story was originally published May 4, 2026 at 5:00 AM.