Democrats Win California and Texas Gubernatorial Races

Democratic candidates achieved significant victories in two of the largest U.S. states during the November 2026 elections. In California, Xavier Becerra defeated Republican Steve Hilton to become the first Latino governor in the state's history. Becerra's win ensures continued Democratic control in California following Gavin Newsom's term. During his campaign, Becerra focused on his record of opposing the Trump administration and pledged to maintain tax credits to keep movie and television production within the state.

In a surprise result, Democrat Gina Hinojosa defeated incumbent Republican Governor Greg Abbott in Texas. Hinojosa, a former Austin ISD board president, is the first Democrat to win the Texas governorship since 1990. Her platform centered on expanding health care, reducing family costs, and opposing corporate influence. Upon taking office, Hinojosa intends to end the $1 billion school voucher program, fire Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath, and return Houston ISD to local control.

While Greg Abbott had led in polling by five points in the weeks before the vote, Hinojosa secured the win. In California, Steve Hilton struggled to distance himself from Donald Trump's endorsement throughout the race. These gubernatorial wins occurred alongside broader Democratic successes in the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives.