Late California ballots could reshape primary results in closely watched governor's race

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June 2, 2026 / 12:00 AM EDT

/ CBS Sacramento

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California's governor's race is tightening as many Democratic voters appear to be waiting until the final hours to cast their ballots.Ballot-tracking data shows Democrats are voting at a slower pace heading into Election Day, fueling expectations of a late "blue surge" that could shift the final outcome once all ballots are counted.Democratic strategist Steve Maviglio says the trend reflects voters who are still weighing their choices."To me, it's voters hanging onto their ballots until the bitter end," Maviglio said.Data from Political Data, Inc. show a slow increase in ballots cast on Monday, with registered Democratic ballots cast still trailing registered Republicans 18% to 21%, respectively. The latest Emerson College poll shows Democratic candidate Xavier Becerra leading the field with 28% support, followed by fellow Democrat Tom Steyer at 22%. Republican Steve Hilton sits at 21%, while Republican Chad Bianco has 12% support.With the race still tight, Hilton is now making a last-minute call for Bianco to drop out of the race in an effort to consolidate Republican support and improve the party's chances of advancing to the November general election.