San Diego, February 2, 2026
An opinion piece has emerged suggesting that Assemblymember Buffy Wicks should enter the race for governor of California. With extensive legislative experience and a history of bipartisan support, Wicks stands out as a potential candidate who could appeal to a broad electorate. She has successfully authored significant legislation, including bills focused on housing affordability and small businesses. As the political landscape shifts in the lead-up to the 2026 election, Wicks’ candidacy could help unify the fragmented Democratic field.
San Diego, California – Amid a crowded field of gubernatorial candidates, a recent opinion piece has called for Assemblymember Buffy Wicks to enter the race for governor. The article highlights Wicks’ extensive experience and bipartisan support, suggesting she could be a strong contender in the upcoming election.
Buffy Wicks, currently serving her fourth term in the California State Assembly, represents the 14th district, which includes Oakland, El Cerrito, Richmond, and other East Bay communities. Known for her bipartisan approach, Wicks has a history of collaborating across party lines to pass significant legislation. Notably, she authored Assembly Bill 130, a landmark housing bill that aims to expedite the construction of new homes and address the state’s housing affordability crisis. The bill passed the California State Assembly with bipartisan support and was signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom in June 2025.
In addition to her housing initiatives, Wicks has been active in supporting small businesses. In September 2025, she co-authored Assembly Bill 671, which streamlines the permitting process for small, independent restaurants, allowing them to open more quickly while maintaining health and safety standards. This legislation was also passed with bipartisan support.
Wicks’ political career is marked by her ability to build consensus and navigate complex legislative processes. Before her tenure in the Assembly, she was a political strategist credited with contributing to President Barack Obama’s grassroots organizing model. Her deep understanding of policy and governance has earned her respect among colleagues and constituents alike.
The call for Wicks to run for governor comes at a time when the Democratic field appears fragmented. Several potential candidates have either withdrawn or shifted their campaign focus, leaving a gap that Wicks could fill. Her experience and bipartisan appeal position her as a strong candidate capable of uniting various factions within the party and appealing to a broad electorate.
The 2026 California gubernatorial election is scheduled for November 3, 2026. As the election approaches, the political landscape continues to evolve, with potential candidates like Wicks being closely watched by both political analysts and voters.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Buffy Wicks?
Buffy Wicks is a Democratic politician currently serving her fourth term in the California State Assembly, representing the 14th district, which includes Oakland, El Cerrito, Richmond, and other East Bay communities.
What significant legislation has Buffy Wicks authored?
Wicks authored Assembly Bill 130, a landmark housing bill aimed at expediting the construction of new homes to address California’s housing affordability crisis. The bill passed the California State Assembly with bipartisan support and was signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom in June 2025.
What is Assembly Bill 671?
Assembly Bill 671, co-authored by Wicks, streamlines the permitting process for small, independent restaurants, allowing them to open more quickly while maintaining health and safety standards. The legislation was passed with bipartisan support in September 2025.
What is the current status of the 2026 California gubernatorial election?
The 2026 California gubernatorial election is scheduled for November 3, 2026. As of now, the Democratic field appears fragmented, with several potential candidates having withdrawn or shifted their campaign focus, leaving a gap that Wicks could fill.
Key Features of the Article
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Subject | Potential gubernatorial candidacy of Assemblymember Buffy Wicks |
| Legislation Highlighted | Assembly Bill 130 (housing) and Assembly Bill 671 (restaurant permitting) |
| Political Context | Fragmented Democratic field in the 2026 California gubernatorial election |
| Election Date | November 3, 2026 |
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
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