Gavin Newsom has not endorsed any Democrat to succeed him, privately criticizing several contenders while the field fractures and Republicans sense an opening.
Gavin Newsom’s reluctance to pick a successor has become its own story, with the governor repeatedly avoiding an endorsement and reportedly making negative comments in private. That silence has fed narratives of a party that is disorganized and unsure about its next leader. The dynamic matters because California’s next governor will face real challenges that voters care about.
The Democratic field still looks messy even after Eric Swalwell’s exit, with seven candidates remaining and no obvious consensus emerging. Two names often floated as early frontrunners are former U.S. Representative Katie Porter and billionaire environmental backer Tom Steyer. That pairing does not reassure many voters who want steady leadership and competent management.
Porter’s tenure in Congress brought both national attention and controversy, including reports about her treatment of staff and allegations tied to her ex-husband’s behavior. Steyer is well known for his activism and deep pockets, but critics say he lacks consistency and broad appeal. Voters who prize stable, pro-business governance see problems with both profiles.
Newsom has reportedly dismissed Porter as someone who would “drive business out” of the state and criticized Steyer as being “all over the place.” He has also clashed with other prominent Democrats, from San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan on homelessness to former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa during past contests. His private barbs extend to Xavier Becerra, whom he has blamed for weak leadership as Secretary of Health and Human Services during the COVID-19 period.
And this is all according to CNN.
The lack of a clear heir apparent creates an opportunity for Republicans, especially if the party’s voters coalesce around a credible statewide alternative. Steve Hilton, a former Fox News host and one-time director of strategy for British Prime Minister David Cameron, has been polling near 20 percent support and is often mentioned as the leading Republican figure. GOP strategists believe Democratic disarray could be the opening a conservative candidate needs to make serious inroads.
California voters have grown tired of political infighting and empty messaging, and they want officials who can deliver results on crime, homelessness, and the economy. A divided Democratic primary hands Republicans a narrative to use about competence and priorities. If the GOP can field a disciplined candidate who focuses on practical solutions, the general election could be competitive in ways few expected a year ago.
Beyond personalities, the contest exposes deeper questions about the Democratic Party’s direction in California — whether it will double down on progressive priorities or pivot toward more business-friendly policies. Newsom’s comments, public and private, suggest he doubts the readiness of several contenders to manage the state’s complex economy and services. Those doubts are now part of the conversation voters will weigh at the ballot box.
Fundraising, name recognition, and voter turnout will decide who survives the primary gauntlet, and internal criticism from an incumbent does not help candidates who already face skepticism. Republican operatives are watching primary polling closely, prepared to exploit any missteps and to spotlight dysfunction. For now, the race remains open and unpredictable as both parties jockey for advantage.
“California has always benefited from a depth of talent and vision within our Democratic Party, and this upcoming race for governor is no exception,” Newsom said in a statement. “The field represents a diverse group of leaders who are deeply committed to continuing our state’s progress, and I have full confidence that voters will choose a candidate who reflects the values and direction Californians believe in.”
