Billionaire and political donor Tom Steyer has announced he’s running for governor of California, joining a field of Democrat and Republican candidates eyeing the top office as Gov. Gavin Newsom’s tenure approaches the end.
Steyer, in his announcement on Wednesday, Nov. 19, spoke about the cost of living in the state and that he plans to “launch the largest drive to build” affordable homes.
Who is Tom Steyer?
Steyer founded San Francisco-based hedge fund Farallon Capital Management in 1986 where he remained for years. A Democrat, Steyer is known to be a major political donor, including in the recent voter-approved Proposition 50 in California, as well as an advocate of environmentalism. He founded NextGen America, which describes itself as mobilizing young people for progressive causes.
Steyer previously ran to be the Democratic presidential nominee that ultimately went to former President Joe Biden in 2020.
Who is running for governor?
Here are some of the higher-profile candidates running for governor in California:
But the list of candidates running for governor of California isn’t limited to the above. Although not a comprehensive list, here are some other names running for the office, including Republican Leo Zacky; entrepreneur Ethan Agarwal; entrepreneur Sharifah Hardie, Republican Brandon Jones, self-described faith leader Ché Ahn and Green Party member Butch Ware.
How long can a governor serve in California?
Gov. Gavin Newsom cannot seek reelection as he’s termed out. A governor in California can serve two four-year terms.
How long has Gavin Newsom been governor?
Newsom was first elected to the office in 2018, beginning his first term in 2019.
What elections are coming up in California?
California voters will be tasked with winnowing down the field of candidates for governor during the primary election on June 2, 2026. Only two candidates will move on to the election in November of next year.
Paris Barraza is a trending reporter covering California news at The Desert Sun. Reach her at pbarraza@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Who is running for California governor? Billionaire Tom Steyer joins race
Reporting by Paris Barraza, Palm Springs Desert Sun / Palm Springs Desert Sun
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