What's on California's ballot in the 2026 midterm election? A voter's guide to the statewide races

California voters will head to the polls on Tuesday to choose the next governor, fill several statewide offices and vote on 14 ballot propositions covering topics such as wealth taxes, affordable housing, state budget reserves, election rules, homeownership, medical research and environmental regulations. The governor’s race pits Democrat Xavier Becerra against Republican Steve Hilton to replace term-limited Gov. Gavin Newsom. Becerra is a former U.S. Health and Human Services secretary; Hilton is a former Fox News host endorsed by President Trump. Both campaigns focus on affordability but differ on approaches ranging from gas prices and environment to homelessness, healthcare and federal immigration coordination. Other statewide contests include lieutenant governor, attorney general, and secretary of state races.