The election for California’s top offices is more than two years away, but campaigning has already begun for the lieutenant governor race, a low-key position that, despite its limited power, has served as a successful launchpad for two Golden State governors.
On Wednesday, former Stockton Mayor Michael Tubbs announced his bid for lieutenant governor, joining state Treasurer Fiona Ma and state Senator Steven Bradford in the race—all Democrats.
A few other politicians have set up campaign committees for the office but have not officially announced their intentions to run. Senate minority leader Brian Jones (R-San Diego) has more than $500,000 in a committee for the 2026 race, according to state data. However, he told The Times that he’s currently focused on “battling” Gov. Gavin Newsom and Democrats, and his decision will come “at a later date.”
