California governor race draws record $79 million in outside spending

California’s open primary for governor, held a week before the June 2 general election, features a crowded field that includes former Health Secretary Xavier Becerra, Republican sheriff Chad Bianco, former Fox News host Steve Hilton, San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan and billionaire activist Tom Steyer. Polls show Becerra and Hilton tied near 22 percent, with Steyer in third.

Campaign finance data reveal unprecedented external spending. Outside groups have poured $79 million into the contest, more than double the total spent in the 2018 governor race. A coalition of real‑estate, utility and labor interests funded a $32 million ad campaign opposing Steyer, while pro‑Becerra committees received $13 million from donors such as Chevron, McDonald’s, DaVita, Meta, Airbnb and the health‑insurer Centene. Progressive unions have also spent modest sums to support both Becerra and Steyer. Tech investors, including venture capitalists and executives from DoorDash and Intuit, have funded independent spenders backing Mahan’s candidacy.

Voters are urged to return mailed ballots by the Thursday before the election or to vote in person at designated locations, as the deadline for mail‑in ballots approaches.