California Voters Decide Governor, LA Mayor Today

Voters in California are heading to the polls today for a key primary election. The governor's race is unsettled, and voters in Los Angeles are choosing their next mayor.
By Newsroom | Politics, California |

Gubernatorial Race Sees Unsettled Primary; L.A. Mayoralty Also Key

CALIFORNIA – =Voters across California are casting ballots today in a primary election marked by a particularly fluid gubernatorial contest and a closely watched mayoral race in Los Angeles.= The statewide primary, concluding today at 8 p.m. Pacific Time, will determine the top two contenders in the governor's race who will advance to a November runoff, in what is being described as one of the most uncertain gubernatorial primaries in recent memory.

Previewing California’s Primary Elections and High-Stakes Governor’s Race - 1

In the running for governor, early polling suggested Xavier Becerra, Tom Steyer, and Steve Hilton as leading candidates in the final days of the campaign. The state Democratic Party had engaged in efforts to encourage lower-polling candidates to withdraw from the race. The outcome is seen as significant, not just for the nation's most populous state, but for its potential impact on the broader political landscape. The gubernatorial race is one of several high-stakes contests on the ballot, which also includes elections for Los Angeles mayor and City Council seats, as well as county supervisor positions.

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Previewing California’s Primary Elections and High-Stakes Governor’s Race - 2

Voter participation on election day has presented common concerns. For those who may not have pre-registered or are uncertain about their status, =California offers conditional voter registration, allowing individuals to register and vote on election day.= Some candidates themselves reportedly encountered difficulties voting in person, discovering they were not listed on voter rolls.

Previewing California’s Primary Elections and High-Stakes Governor’s Race - 3

Beyond the marquee races, numerous local contests and ballot measures are being decided. Voters in Los Angeles are deciding on measures related to hotel taxes, cannabis, and healthcare, alongside races for City Council and County Supervisor. A notable contest is the Los Angeles County Sheriff's election, featuring incumbent Sheriff Robert Luna against Alex Villanueva, whom he unseated in the previous election, and other challengers.

Previewing California’s Primary Elections and High-Stakes Governor’s Race - 4

The gubernatorial primary campaign was extensive, with a focus from some candidates on issues such as crime, homelessness, and the cost of living, often coupled with critiques of current Democratic leadership in the state. The significance of the California governor's race extends nationally, given the state's considerable economic and political weight.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who are the main candidates for California Governor in today's primary?
Early polls showed Xavier Becerra, Tom Steyer, and Steve Hilton as leading candidates for governor. The primary will narrow the field to the top two who will run in November.
Q: How can I vote in California if I didn't register early?
California offers conditional voter registration, which means you can register and vote on election day at a polling place or vote center.
Q: What other important elections are happening in California today?
Besides the governor's race, voters in Los Angeles are deciding on their next mayor and city council members. There are also key local races like the Los Angeles County Sheriff's election.
Q: What issues are voters concerned about in the California governor's race?
Candidates have focused on issues like crime, homelessness, and the high cost of living in California.
Q: When do polls close for the California primary election today?
Polls close at 8 p.m. Pacific Time today, February 6, 2026.