When do election results come in for governor race?

California voters headed to the polls on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, to decide a wide array of statewide, congressional, and local races. The central focus of the primary is the contest to replace term-limited Governor Gavin Newsom in a race described as a tumultuous and wide-open primary.

Because California utilizes a top-two primary system, the two candidates with the most votes will advance to the November general election regardless of their political party. This system creates a unique dynamic where two candidates of the same party could potentially face off in the final round.

The Race for Governor

Former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra has emerged as a front-runner in several polls, with numbers ranging between 23% and 28%. He is facing significant competition from billionaire activist Tom Steyer and Republican former Fox News host Steve Hilton.

The campaign has been marked by a clash over wealth and leadership. Tom Steyer has spent roughly $220 million of his own money, making it the most expensive campaign in California history, while arguing his wealth ensures independence from corporate influence.

Xavier Becerra has countered this narrative, stating that leadership is earned through service and results rather than the highest bidder. Meanwhile, Steve Hilton has received national GOP support, including endorsements from President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance.

Did You Know? Tom Steyer’s $220 million campaign is the most expensive in California’s history, surpassing the previous record set by Meg Whitman, who spent $144 million in 2010.

Legal Conflicts and Voting Integrity

The election occurs amid heightened tension between state leadership and the federal government. Governor Gavin Newsom recently signed Senate Bill 73, which makes it a felony for anyone, including law enforcement, to seize ballots from a county election office.

This legislation followed a February incident where Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco seized more than 650,000 ballots. Bianco, who is also a candidate for governor, is a former member of the Oath Keepers militia.

Further disputes have arisen over mail-in voting. President Donald Trump has claimed California’s mail-in system is fraudulent, a claim that Governor Newsom’s office and Attorney General Rob Bonta have strongly denied.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the top-two primary system introduces significant strategic risk for the Democratic party. With multiple Democratic candidates splitting the vote, there is a mathematical possibility that two Republicans could advance to the general election, potentially shutting out the party currently running the state.

San Francisco Local Stakes

In San Francisco, the primary includes critical decisions on local governance and budgeting. Mayor Daniel Lurie has proposed a budget to reduce the city’s structural deficit by approximately $300 million.

INTERVIEW: Candidate for governor Xavier Becerra on how he'll stand out in race

Progressives are eyeing Proposition D, a tax measure on big businesses with highly paid executives, as a way to generate $250 million to $300 million annually. If passed, proponents argue this could prevent cuts to social programs for vulnerable residents.

Local races are also highlighting neighborhood disputes, such as the controversy over a proposed 25-story residential tower in the Marina and the debate over reopening the Upper Great Highway to cars on weekdays.

Congressional and Future Outlook

Congressional races are also in play, with Democrats attempting to flip up to five Republican-held seats. In the 14th Congressional District, voters are seeking a successor to Eric Swalwell, who resigned amid sexual assault allegations.

As for the results, polls close at 8 p.m. Across the state. While early returns for statewide races will roll in immediately, the final tally is likely to extend for weeks due to the high volume of mail-in ballots.

The final lineup for November may depend on late-arriving mail. A new U.S. Postal Service policy means some ballots dropped on Election Day may not be postmarked until they reach a processing facility, potentially impacting rural voters.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the final election results be official?
While early results begin rolling in after polls close at 8 p.m., the final counting process in California is likely to extend for weeks before results for all races and measures are official.

What is the significance of Senate Bill 73?
Senate Bill 73 makes it a felony for anyone, including law enforcement, to seize ballots from a county election office, punishable by up to three years in prison and a $1,000 fine.

How does the “top-two” primary system work?
The two candidates who receive the most votes in the primary advance to the November general election, regardless of their party affiliation.

How do you think the use of personal wealth in political campaigns affects the democratic process?