California's governor race remains deadlocked with nearly 60% of votes counted, as the state continues a slow tallying process that could take days or weeks. Republican Steve Hilton, a former UK political operative and Fox News host, holds a narrow lead, followed by Democrat Xavier Becerra, the former health secretary, and billionaire environmental activist Tom Steyer in third.
Results may shift significantly as more ballots are processed, particularly from Democratic voters who waited until the last moment to return mail-in ballots. Early returns favoured Republicans, but outstanding Democratic votes are expected to boost Becerra and Steyer. California's top-two primary system means the two highest vote-getters advance to the general election, regardless of party.
Elsewhere, primary results across the US reflected key themes for the 2026 midterms: Democratic desire for change after 2024 losses, Donald Trump's continued influence on Republicans despite falling approval, and voter discontent with the economy. Establishment Democrats won in key races deemed most electable, while progressive candidates backed by Bernie Sanders succeeded in safe blue districts.
Notable races include a New Jersey House contest where Democrat Rebecca Bennett will face Republican Tom Kean Jr., who was absent from Congress for months due to a mysterious medical issue. In Iowa, rematches are set in competitive House districts, and Josh Turek, a moderate state legislator with a compelling personal story, won the Democratic Senate primary to challenge Ashley Hinson. The Cook Political Report shifted that race from 'likely Republican' to 'lean Republican'.
