New polling shows tightening race for California governor

California gubernatorial poll

The race for California governor remains wide open.

The race for California’s next governor remains wide open, according to two new polls released this week. 

What we know:

Two separate polls were released this week, providing a look at the current standing of the gubernatorial candidates. 

A poll conducted by SurveyUSA places Republican Steve Hilton in the lead with 20% of the vote. 

He is followed by Democrat Tom Steyer at 18%, Chad Bianco at 12%, and Xavier Becerra at 10%.

In contrast, a separate poll released by the California Democratic Party and conducted by Evitarus, a public opinion research consulting firm, shows a much tighter race at the top. 

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In this survey, Steve Hilton and Xavier Becerra are tied for the lead, both garnering 18% of the vote.

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By the numbers:

The data shows the following:

SurveyUSA poll:

• Steve Hilton: 20%
• Tom Steyer: 18%
• Chad Bianco: 12%
• Xavier Becerra: 10%
• Undecided: 17%

Evitarus poll (California Democratic Party):

• Steve Hilton: 18%
• Xavier Becerra: 18%
• Undecided: 14% (down from a previous 24%)

Big picture view:

This shift indicates that voters are beginning to settle on their preferred candidates.