The question dominating political conversations across the Golden State is simple: who won the governor race in California? The answer, at least for now, remains uncertain. Early returns from California's highly anticipated 2026 gubernatorial primary showed a fiercely competitive contest, with Republican Steve Hilton and Democrats Xavier Becerra and Tom Steyer emerging as the leading candidates. However, election officials cautioned that the outcome could take days, or even weeks, to become clear as millions of mail-in and provisional ballots continue to be processed. With California's unique "top-two" primary system advancing only the two highest vote-getters regardless of party affiliation, every ballot matters in a race that could reshape the state's political future. While some candidates have already conceded, the battle for a place on the November ballot remains very much alive.Who is leading the California governor race?As early results rolled in Tuesday night, Steve Hilton, Xavier Becerra and Tom Steyer separated themselves from the crowded field of candidates seeking to replace term-limited Governor Gavin Newsom, as per a report by The Guardian. Becerra, the former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary and former California Attorney General, entered Election Day with growing momentum after a late surge in polling.Hilton, a former adviser to British Prime Minister David Cameron and a conservative television personality, positioned himself as a challenger to California's Democratic establishment. His campaign focused heavily on affordability, public safety and government accountability.Meanwhile, billionaire investor and climate activist Tom Steyer remained within striking distance, urging supporters to remain patient while additional ballots are counted."It might take some time to figure out where this is going," Steyer told supporters. "We're going to wait until every ballot is counted."Why the California race is taking longer to callAnyone searching for "California governor race live" updates may need patience.California's election system relies heavily on vote-by-mail ballots, many of which arrive close to Election Day. Election officials conduct extensive verification procedures before ballots are included in official tallies.Political strategists had warned for weeks that the California governor election results might not be finalized on election night. Many Democratic voters reportedly waited until the final days to submit ballots, creating additional delays in the counting process.As a result, the answer to "who won California governor 2026" may not be known immediately.A crowded field created an unpredictable contestThe California race became one of the state's most unusual elections in recent memory. More than 60 candidates appeared on the ballot, creating a highly fragmented contest. Several prominent Democrats declined to enter the race, leaving voters without a clear frontrunner.The crowded field sparked concerns among Democrats that their vote could be split, potentially allowing two Republicans to advance under California's top-two primary system.Ultimately, that scenario appears unlikely based on early results, but uncertainty remains until more votes are counted.Several candidates ended their campaigns on election night. Former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan and Representative Katie Porter all conceded after early returns showed them trailing the leaders.Where is Steve Hilton from?One of the most searched questions during the election has been: "Where is Steve Hilton from?"Hilton was born in the United Kingdom and became widely known as a senior adviser to former British Prime Minister David Cameron. After relocating to California, he built a media career and became a prominent conservative commentator.His outsider status and criticism of California's political leadership helped him gain support among voters seeking change after years of Democratic control.Key issues driving voters in 2026The governor race centered on issues that continue to affect millions of Californians.Housing affordability remained a top concern, with many residents struggling under rising costs. Homelessness, wildfire preparedness, public safety and economic uncertainty also dominated campaign discussions.Becerra emphasized experience and government competence. Steyer focused on economic reform and climate initiatives. Hilton argued that California needed a new direction after decades of one-party governance.Those competing visions helped make the race one of the most closely watched elections in the nation.What happens next?While early numbers provide a snapshot of voter sentiment, the final picture remains incomplete.Election officials will continue counting ballots over the coming days, determining which two candidates advance to November's general election.For now, Steve Hilton, Xavier Becerra and Tom Steyer remain at the center of the battle as Californians wait for a definitive answer to the question: Who won the California governor race?FAQsWho won the governor race in California?The race remains too close to call. Early results show Steve Hilton, Xavier Becerra and Tom Steyer leading, but many ballots are still being counted.Who is leading the California governor race?Based on early returns, Steve Hilton and Xavier Becerra appeared to hold the strongest positions, with Tom Steyer remaining competitive.