Four surprises in California primary results as voters reject status quo
California's primary results revealed significant voter dissatisfaction with the status quo, leading to surprising outcomes. Republican Steve Hilton emerged as a frontrunner for governor, while LA Mayor Karen Bass may face a runoff against Spencer Pratt. Additionally, voters rejected several local tax measures, signaling a potential shift in political dynamics.
- ▪California voters rejected the status quo in the primary, with Republican Steve Hilton leading the gubernatorial race.
- ▪Voters in major cities turned down local tax increases, including measures targeting vacant homes and high CEO salaries.
- ▪Tom Steyer's record spending in the gubernatorial race did not secure him a top-two finish, highlighting the limits of financial influence in politics.
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Opinion Four surprises in California primary results as voters reject status quo By Joel Pollak Published June 3, 2026, 10:57 a.m. ET See more of our coverage in your search results. Add The California Post on Google California voters rejected the status quo in Tuesday’s primary, sending Republican Steve Hilton to the top of the leaderboard in the race for governor, and likely forcing LA Mayor Karen Bass into a runoff against challenger Spencer Pratt. As results stand, the Golden State will have the general election it deserves: a clear contest between bold, fresh new ideas on the one hand, and an entrenched political establishment on the other. The winds of change blew through downticket races as well.
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