New Poll Shows Tight Race for California Governor as Debate Lineup Expands

A new Emerson College poll shows the California governor's race is essentially a three-way tie at the top, with Republican Steve Hilton leading at 17%, followed by Republican Chad Bianco and Democrat Tom Steyer both at 14%. Nearly a quarter of likely primary voters, 23%, remain undecided.

The poll, conducted April 14–15, is the first since Congressman Eric Swalwell dropped out of the race. His exit is reshaping the Democratic side of the contest. Without Swalwell on the ballot, Democrat Xavier Becerra gained 15 points among Democratic voters, jumping to 19% support within the party. Tom Steyer leads Democrats at 20%, with Katie Porter at 15%, and San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan at 5%.

The economy is the top concern for California voters at 41%, followed by housing affordability at 20%.

Swalwell's exit also changes who gets a seat at the debate table. Becerra, Porter, and Mahan now qualify to join next week's primary debate on April 22nd. NBC Palm Springs will broadcast that debate live on air on Wednesday at 7 p.m. PST.