Everything to know about the California 2026 primary
Ballots for the June 2 primary are arriving in mailboxes across the Central Coast and California. While some high-profile races are drawing broad attention, much of what’s on the ballot is closer to home, including legislative seats, county offices and supervisor races that could influence public policy in San Luis Obispo County for years. Statewide, certain races could redefine the political landscape because of Proposition 50’s passage. This guide breaks down the major races and issues, offering context and key details to help you make informed choices before Election Day.
Statewide races
Governor
Eight major candidates are competing in a crowded, high-stakes race to replace Gov. Gavin Newsom. A late-stage debate and recent shakeups could reshape the volatile field before voting begins.
Lt. Governor
Five viable candidates with low name recognition are vying in the primary for lieutenant governor, a largely ceremonial role. Fundraising strength and high-profile endorsements could determine which two hopefuls advance.
Secretary of State
The Secretary of State race features an incumbent Democrat with a clear advantage in a heavily blue state. The office oversees elections and business filings, and has served as a springboard to higher office.
Attorney General
Three candidates are competing to become California’s attorney general, the state’s top law enforcement official. The position carries broad legal authority and frequently places its holder at the center of major political and policy fights.
State Treasurer
Six candidates are running for state treasurer, who manages California’s finances and investment portfolios. The next officeholder will help navigate budget deficits and fund major infrastructure and public programs.
State Controller
Incumbent controller Malia Cohen faces two challengers in a low-profile race. The office oversees state spending, audits agencies and will confront payroll system issues.
State Superintendent of Public Instruction
Eight candidates are competing for state superintendent of public instruction, a nonpartisan role shaping education policy. The next schools chief could see the job’s authority reduced under a proposed overhaul by Newsom.
Insurance Commissioner
More than 10 candidates are competing for insurance commissioner, a high-pressure role overseeing a troubled market. Frustration over rising costs and coverage gaps has made it one of the most crowded statewide races.
Board of Equalization, 2nd District
Six candidates are running for a seat overseeing property tax practices across the Central Coast. The incumbent and a top challenger have largely self-funded campaigns.
Congress
19th House District
Seven candidates, including incumbent Jimmy Panetta, are competing in a congressional district that includes northern San Luis Obispo County, with the longtime Democrat holding a commanding fundraising advantage.
24th House District
Three challengers are running against longtime Rep. Salud Carbajal, who holds a sizable fundraising lead over a field of underfunded opponents with limited political experience.
Legislature
30th Assembly District
Three candidates are running for an Assembly seat covering most of the county. Incumbent Dawn Addis holds a wide fundraising lead over a Democratic challenger and a largely self-funded Republican opponent.
37th Assembly District
Two candidates are running for the legislative seat covering a small portion of southern San Luis Obispo County, including Nipomo. Incumbent Gregg Hart holds a significant fundraising advantage.
Local races
Board of Supervisors, 2nd District
An open supervisor seat representing the county’s northern coastal communities has drawn two candidates to replace longtime incumbent Bruce Gibson.
Board of Supervisors, 4th District
A contentious reelection bid is unfolding in District 4, where incumbent Jimmy Paulding faces business owner Adam Verdin amid disputes over campaign spending and outside influence.
County Superintendent of Schools
Joe Koski is set to become the next county superintendent of schools after his only opponent dropped out of the race.
County Assessor
Tom Bordonaro Jr. is running unopposed to continue as county assessor, overseeing property valuations that determine taxes. He has raised about $4,200, largely from personal loans.
County Clerk-Recorder
Three candidates are running to lead the county’s elections office, including incumbent Elaina Cano, a business owner and a candidate facing felony election fraud charges. Cano has raised little, while one challenger largely self-funded.
Auditor-Controller-Treasurer-Tax Collector-Public Administrator
Jim Hamilton is unopposed for auditor-controller, serving as the county’s chief financial officer overseeing auditing, investments and tax collection. No campaign fundraising had been reported as of early April.