With California’s June primary nearing, voters will soon decide which two gubernatorial candidates will face off in November’s general election.
Here’s a clear, factual look at who Katie Porter is, what she stands for, and how her record compares — designed to help readers make informed decisions.
Who is Katie Porter?
Porter is a law professor and consumer protection attorney who served as a U.S. Representative from California from 2019 to 2025 and is running for California governor on a platform focused on lowering the cost of living, expanding economic opportunity, and holding corporate interests accountable.
Background and career
Why Katie Porter is running
Porter has said she is running for governor because she thinks the state needs a leader who will focus on lowering the cost of living, protecting working families, and standing up to powerful interests. “I’ve only ever been motivated by one thing: making Californians’ lives better. And I’ll go toe-to-toe with anyone who tries to hurt Californians,” Porter said in a campaign video.
“I first ran for office to hold Trump accountable. I feel that same call to serve now to stop him from hurting Californians,” Porter said in a video announcing candidacy, CalMatters reported. “As governor, I won’t ever back down when Trump hurts Californians — whether he’s holding up disaster relief, attacking our rights or our communities, or screwing over working families to benefit himself and his cronies.”
Key policy positions
Economy and cost of living
Housing and homelessness
Public safety and crime
Climate, water and energy
Immigration and border issues
Education
Record in office
Election and campaign history
What critics say
Critics of Porter argue that her temperament and interpersonal leadership style are concerning, often citing viral videos showing a tense exchange with a reporter and a separate, heated moment with a staffer. Critics argue Porter is politically isolated, as few Democrats came to her defense after videos of the incidents surfaced, according to POLITICO.
What supporters say
Supporters argue that Porter takes on powerful interests on behalf of consumers and working families, citing her time in Congress. They argue her tough nature is a strength, not a flaw. After viral videos of Porter’s tense interactions surfaced, 30 former staffers signed an open letter in support of Porter, noting that she has high standards, works harder than anyone, and demands no more of others than she does of herself.
What’s next in the race
Sources and reporting notes
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Who is Katie Porter? What to know about the California governor candidate
Reporting by Daniella Segura, Palm Springs Desert Sun / Palm Springs Desert Sun
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
