Outside Groups Pour Record $79.6 Million Into California Governor Race as Steyer Draws $32.3 Million in Attacks
Updated
Updated · Los Angeles Times · May 26
Outside Groups Pour Record $79.6 Million Into California Governor Race as Steyer Draws $32.3 Million in Attacks
3 articles · Updated · Los Angeles Times · May 26
$79.6 million has flowed into independent committees in California's governor's race before the June 2 primary, smashing prior records and reshaping the contest to replace Gavin Newsom.
Tom Steyer has been the main target, with $32.3 million spent against him even after he put $212 million of his own money into his campaign; support for him from outside groups totals just over $1.4 million.
Xavier Becerra has emerged as a major beneficiary, with more than $13 million backing outside groups that helped fuel his rise in recent polls and sparked a public clash over Chevron's $500,000 donation to a pro-Becerra committee.
Matt Mahan has drawn $21.7 million in outside support but remains in single digits, while Republican Steve Hilton has faced $1.8 million in opposition and little supportive spending.
The surge reflects California's post-Citizens United system, where donors capped at $78,400 for direct gubernatorial contributions can give unlimited sums to nominally independent committees often tied to major business, labor and tribal interests.
Will a new state law activating in 2027 successfully challenge the flow of corporate money in politics?
If campaigns openly signal attack strategies, are anti-coordination laws simply for show?
$79.6 Million in Independent Expenditures Reshapes 2026 California Gubernatorial Primary
Overview
The 2026 California governor’s race has seen an unprecedented surge in independent expenditures, with a record $79.6 million funneled into independent committees by late May. This massive influx of money comes from corporations, labor unions, tech companies, Native American tribes, and other special interests, all aiming to shape the election’s outcome. These powerful backers have major business interests at stake and are investing heavily to support candidates who align with their priorities or to oppose those who do not. As a result, independent spending is playing a unique and highly impactful role in this year’s governor’s race.