Democratic gubernatorial candidate Tom Steyer declined to assign a grade to Governor Gavin Newsom's two terms in office during a Monday interview, stating he had not paid close enough attention to the incumbent's record to make an assessment. The billionaire investor and former presidential candidate laughed off the question from KCRA's Ashley Zavala on "California Politics 360," responding with, "I don't know."
When pressed to choose a letter grade from A through F, Steyer demurred. "I don't know, I think people have come to really appreciate how Gavin has stood up for the state of California," he offered before definitively stating, "I haven't followed it closely enough to give him a grade."
Steyer pivoted to his own platform, arguing the next governor must be a "changemaker" to solve the state's problems. He advocated for closing corporate tax loopholes to generate revenue for schools and to establish a single-payer healthcare system. "The number one problem of which is Californians can't afford to live in California anymore," Steyer said. "It's time for us to address the structural issues in California and get back to delivering the California dream for California citizens."
A Crowded Field and Uphill Polling
Steyer entered the race in November and currently polls in fifth place among ten candidates, according to a recent UC Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies survey. He is the top preference for just 10 percent of likely voters. The poll shows a fragmented Democratic field, with Representative Eric Swalwell leading Democrats at 13 percent. However, two Republicans—conservative commentator Steve Hilton and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco—hold the top two spots at 17 and 16 percent respectively.
This dynamic raises the possibility that California's top-two "jungle" primary in June could send two Republicans to the general election in November, a scenario that would force the state's largely liberal electorate to choose between GOP candidates. Swalwell has gained momentum with high-profile endorsements, including from SEIU California and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and he won a plurality of delegates at the state party convention.
Intra-Party Tensions Surface
The campaign has grown increasingly contentious. Steyer has directly attacked Swalwell, questioning whether the congressman meets the state's residency requirement to run for governor and criticizing him for missed votes in Congress. Swalwell's campaign and allies have dismissed these claims. This internal Democratic sparring contrasts with other state-level political battles, such as the revolt Colorado's governor faces from his own party over a clemency decision.
Steyer's refusal to evaluate Newsom's tenure is a notable strategic choice, allowing him to avoid alienating potential supporters of the popular governor while focusing his critique on the status quo. His policy emphasis on affordability and corporate taxes taps into broader economic anxieties reflected in national surveys, like a recent poll showing over 70% of Americans perceive a deteriorating job market.
The candidate's vague stance on the incumbent's performance may also reflect his position in the polls. With no clear Democratic frontrunner and significant support coalescing around Republican candidates, Steyer and his rivals are scrambling to distinguish themselves in a crowded field. The outcome will test whether Democratic voters prioritize established political figures or an outsider message focused on economic change.
The final months before the June primary will likely see intensified campaigning and sharper attacks as candidates vie for a spot in the general election. The race remains highly volatile, with the potential to reshape California's political landscape for years to come.
