Alex Padilla, a favorite to succeed Newsom, announced he will not run for governor of California in 2026 and will be focusing on his role as senior senator.
Alex Padilla, a favorite to succeed Governor Gavin Newsom, has announced that he will not be running for Governor of California in 2026.
Padilla, who has held the seat as California’s senior senator since 2021, was never formally in the race to replace Newsom as Governor of California next year. However, CBS polling from October showed that Padilla was the top considered name among registered voters.
The announcement came as a shock to many Californians who hoped to see Padilla on their ballots next election. Padilla ended speculation on Capitol Hill last Tuesday, where he announced that he will not be a candidate in the upcoming race.
“It is with a full heart, and even more commitment than ever, that I am choosing to not run for governor of California next year,” Padilla said.
“I choose to stay in this fight because the Constitution is worth fighting for, our fundamental rights are worth fighting for, our core values are worth fighting for, the American dream is worth fighting for,” he continued.
Padilla also reaffirmed his commitment and dedication to serving the Senate, with his office term ending in 2029.
The 2026 race for California governor promises to be competitive and high-profile, with Padilla’s decision not to run for governor raising the stakes further. Democratic candidates include Katie Porter, Stephen Cloobeck, Antonio Villaraigosa, Toni Atkins, Xavier Becerra, Betty Yee, and Tony Thurmond.
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Republican candidates include Chad Bianco and Steve Hilton, among others. Butch Ware
is also running, vying for the seat, representing the Green Party.