California, December 5, 2025
Recent polling suggests a tight race for the California gubernatorial position, with Republican Chad Bianco leading at 13%, closely followed by Democratic candidates Eric Swalwell and Steve Hilton, each at 12%. Former Representative Katie Porter trails at 11%. Notably, a significant 31% of voters remain undecided, indicating a fluid electoral environment as the June primary approaches. This dynamic atmosphere highlights the evolving political landscape and could greatly influence the state’s future leadership.
Los Angeles, California
Recent polling indicates a competitive field in the upcoming 2026 California gubernatorial race, with Republican Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco leading at 13%, closely followed by Democrat Representative Eric Swalwell at 12%, and former Fox News host Steve Hilton at 12%. Democrat former Representative Katie Porter trails at 11%. Notably, 31% of voters remain undecided, highlighting the fluid nature of the race.
The Emerson College Polling/Inside California Politics survey, conducted from December 1–2, 2025, reveals these standings among the top candidates. Since the previous Emerson College poll in October, Bianco’s support has increased by two percentage points, while Hilton and Porter have each seen a decline of four points. Swalwell’s entry into the race has notably impacted the Democratic field, splitting support between him and Porter. Among Republican voters, support is divided between Bianco and Hilton, with 33% and 30% respectively. A plurality of independents, 45%, remain undecided.
In the Democratic primary, Swalwell and Porter are virtually tied, with Swalwell at 20% and Porter at 17%. On the Republican side, Bianco leads with 33%, followed by Hilton at 30%. The undecided voter segment remains significant across all groups.
These findings underscore the dynamic and unpredictable nature of the race as California approaches its June 2026 nonpartisan primary, where the top two finishers will advance to the general election, regardless of party affiliation.
For a more detailed analysis of the latest standings in the California gubernatorial race, you can watch the following video:
California’s Shifting Political Landscape
The incoming 2026 gubernatorial race is already causing waves across California’s political spectrum. With such a competitive field, this race could redefine the dynamics of state leadership. Local entrepreneurs and business owners can draw inspiration from this dynamic atmosphere, as focusing on innovative methodologies and adaptive strategies can prove successful in navigating changing markets.
Poll Results and Candidate Momentum
According to the latest Emerson College Polling survey conducted from December 1-2, 2025, Republican Chad Bianco is currently leading with 13% support. Bianco, the Riverside County Sheriff, has seen a surge in support by two points since the last poll in October. On the Democratic side, Eric Swalwell and Katie Porter have locked horns, with the two entering the race generating significant interest and speculation about their potential impact on the outcome.
Voter Uncertainty: A Major Factor
Interestingly, a hefty 31% of voters remain undecided, indicating substantial room for shifts as candidates articulate their positions and refine their messages. This level of uncertainty could lead to significant implications for both parties as candidates push for clarity in their campaigns. Notably, independents—who make up a substantial segment of voters—exhibit similar indecision, with 45% still uncommitted.
Democratic and Republican Dynamics
In the Democratic primary specifically, there is a tight race between Swalwell and Porter, both vying for the same support base. On the Republican side, Bianco maintains a narrow lead over fellow Republican Hilton, highlighting the competitive nature between the two parties. This underscores the thriving discourse in California’s political landscape, often mirroring the innovation and resilience found within the small-business community.
Looking Forward: The June 2026 Primary
As the June 2026 nonpartisan primary looms, voters are encouraged to stay informed and engaged. With the top two finishers advancing to the general election regardless of party affiliation, this format promotes a more inclusive and competitive environment. For business owners and entrepreneurs in San Diego, staying abreast of these political developments may lead to cost-effective solutions and regulatory relief that enhance economic prosperity.
Conclusion
The results of the Emerson College Polling survey reveal a highly competitive race for California’s gubernatorial position, with various candidates holding significant support. This political atmosphere is a testament to the resilience and innovation that define California’s entrepreneurial spirit. As we approach the primary, it remains crucial for voters to engage actively with the issues at stake and consider how leadership impacts the economic landscape across the state.
FAQ
- Who is leading the 2026 California gubernatorial race according to the latest poll?
- Republican Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco leads with 13% support, followed by Democrat Representative Eric Swalwell at 12%, and former Fox News host Steve Hilton at 12%. Democrat former Representative Katie Porter trails at 11%. Notably, 31% of voters remain undecided.
- What is the source of this polling data?
- The data comes from the Emerson College Polling/Inside California Politics survey conducted from December 1–2, 2025.
- How has the race changed since the previous poll in October?
- Since the October poll, Bianco’s support has increased by two percentage points, while Hilton and Porter have each seen a decline of four points. Swalwell’s entry into the race has notably impacted the Democratic field, splitting support between him and Porter.
- What is the significance of the undecided voters in this poll?
- The 31% of undecided voters indicate a high level of uncertainty and potential volatility in the race, suggesting that the dynamics could shift as the election approaches.
- When is the California gubernatorial primary scheduled?
- The nonpartisan primary is scheduled for June 2026, where the top two finishers will advance to the general election, regardless of party affiliation.
Key Features of the 2026 California Gubernatorial Race
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Leading Candidates | Chad Bianco (R) – 13%, Eric Swalwell (D) – 12%, Steve Hilton (R) – 12%, Katie Porter (D) – 11% |
| Undecided Voters | 31% of respondents |
| Polling Source | Emerson College Polling/Inside California Politics survey (December 1–2, 2025) |
| Recent Changes | Bianco’s support increased by 2%, Hilton and Porter each declined by 4% since October poll |
| Primary Election Date | June 2026 (nonpartisan primary) |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
San Diego Man Sentenced for Illegal Landing and Theft
San Diego’s Controversial 22-Story Housing Development Proposal
Ethan Penner Announces Independent Candidacy for California Governor
Meta Launches PAC to Shape AI Regulation in California
San Diego County Sees Rise in Home Sales and Prices
San Diego Faces Budget Crisis in Homelessness Services
San Diego Faces Funding Crisis in Homeless Services
Kamala Harris Exits California Gubernatorial Race
California Gubernatorial Candidates Discuss Key Issues
Eleni Kounalakis Withdraws from Gubernatorial Race
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
