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← The NPR Politics Podcast

What to know about the California governor’s race

May 26, 2026·22m

When voting in California’s primary election wraps on June 2, a crowded field of 62 candidates vying to succeed Gov. Gavin Newsom will narrow to just two who will compete in November. We discuss major factors shaping the race, including the state’s unique primary system, as well as a high-profile effort to unseat Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. This episode: senior political correspondent Tamara Keith, senior national political correspondent Mara Liasson, and KQED correspondent Guy Marzorati. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell and Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.