Leading Democrat
Gavin Newsom
Democratic Party · Governor of California · Incumbent
Gavin Newsom is the 40th Governor of California, serving since 2019. He previously served as Lieutenant Governor of California and Mayor of San Francisco.
California
Governor of California
Election day · November 3, 2026
Statewide race. Each issue below lists every candidate's stance, what they have said in their own words, and the policies they say they want to implement — with sources.
Head to head
The issues
Abortion
Gavin Newsom
SupportsSupports legal abortion access and protections for reproductive healthcare providers and patients in California.
Policies they want to implement
- Constitutional protections for reproductive freedom
- State funding for reproductive healthcare infrastructure
Immigration
Gavin Newsom
SupportsSupports pathways to citizenship, legal protections for undocumented residents, and state healthcare eligibility regardless of status.
Policies they want to implement
- Expansion of Medi-Cal to all low-income residents regardless of immigration status
- Funding for immigrant legal services
Healthcare
Gavin Newsom
SupportsSupports expanding state healthcare coverage toward universal access and lowering prescription drug costs.
Policies they want to implement
- State-sponsored insulin manufacturing initiative
- Expansion of Medi-Cal coverage
Middle East Conflict
Gavin Newsom
MixedCondemned the October 7 attacks, visited Israel in solidarity, and supported security funding for faith institutions while calling for humanitarian aid.
Policies they want to implement
- Increased state grants for non-profit security at places of worship
Economy & Jobs
Gavin Newsom
MixedPromotes green technology investment, state-mandated minimum wage increases for specific sectors, and job training programs.
Policies they want to implement
- Sector-specific minimum wage standards
- Tax credits for zero-emission vehicle manufacturing
Housing
Gavin Newsom
MixedAdvocates for increased housing supply through statewide quotas, streamlining environmental review laws, and state funding for affordable units.
Policies they want to implement
- CEQA reform for infill housing developments
- State enforcement of local housing element targets
Public Safety
Gavin Newsom
MixedCombines gun control regulation and criminal justice reform with state funding for retail theft prevention and law enforcement operations.
Policies they want to implement
- State grants for organized retail theft task forces
- Restrictions on ghost guns and firearm advertising