Tom Steyer Exits California Governor’s Race

Tom Steyer announced his withdrawal from the California governor’s race, acknowledging he lacked the necessary votes to proceed to the general election scheduled for November. In a public statement, Steyer explained his recognition of the situation, which emerged following California’s jungle primary.

The remaining contenders are Steve Hilton, a former Fox News host, and Xavier Becerra, former Health and Human Services Secretary. The November election will see these candidates vying for the gubernatorial position.

Steyer transitioned from founding a hedge fund to focusing on environmental activism and state politics. His campaign, spanning over a decade’s involvement in political activities, saw personal spending exceeding $200 million. This marks his second high-profile political contest following an unsuccessful 2020 Democratic presidential bid.

“It’s now clear that we do not have the votes necessary to advance to the general election in November,” Steyer noted.

During his campaign, Steyer advocated for progressive policies, including the abolition of ICE, the introduction of substantial taxes on the wealthy, and healthcare for all. Senator Bernie Sanders supported his campaign, aligning with Steyer’s perspective on reducing oligarchic influence in politics.

Steyer attributed corporate interests to his campaign’s outcome, citing that opposition groups, including major corporations like Chevron, PG&E, and Meta, collectively spent $55 million to counter his candidacy. He emphasized the need for a political system serving Californians rather than corporate profit.

“By spending $55 million – the most ever against a single candidate in a California primary – they showed the lengths they would go to in order to protect a status quo that only serves them and their profits.”

Hilton, supported by former President Trump, and Becerra will face off in November. The California jungle primary allows candidates from any party to compete on the same ballot. The two candidates with the most votes advance to the general election.