Eleni Kounalakis announces 2026 California governor campaign

California Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis has launched her 2026 campaign for governor, becoming the first candidate to seek to replace Gov. Gavin Newsom, who will be termed out of office. Kounalakis, who would be the first woman elected governor in California's history if elected, has been a leader in California's drive to define itself as a haven for people seeking abortions. Attorney General Rob Bonta is also considering a 2026 gubernatorial run, while state Treasurer Fiona Ma said she would be running for lieutenant governor in 2026.