Toni Atkins, the leader of the California Senate, has announced her run for governor in 2026, aiming to become the state's first woman and openly LGBTQ governor. She faces competition from other prominent Democrats, including Tony Thurmond, Betty Yee, Eleni Kounalakis, and Rob Bonta. Atkins, known for her legislative experience and personal story, aims to preserve the state's financial progress without resorting to sweeping tax increases if elected.
Toni Atkins, California's Democratic State Senate Pro Tempore, has officially launched her campaign for governor in 2026, aiming to succeed Gavin Newsom. Atkins, known as an LGBTQ+ trailblazer, highlighted her understanding of the challenges facing Californians and her readiness for the role. Her announcement adds to a growing field of candidates, including Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis and others, vying for the position. If elected, Atkins would be the first woman to serve as California's governor.
Toni Atkins, the current Senate leader in California, has announced her bid to become the state's first woman and LGBTQ+ governor in 2026. With a history of breaking boundaries as the first out lesbian Assembly Speaker and Senate leader, Atkins aims to distinguish herself in a crowded field of contenders. She emphasizes her experience and legislative record, acknowledging the challenge of building name recognition and fundraising. Atkins' candidacy adds to a diverse field of potential 'firsts' in California politics, including the first Asian American and the first Black person and Latino to win the top job.
San Diego's Democratic state Senate leader Toni Atkins is expected to announce her bid for governor, with a scheduled "major announcement" on Friday, joining other Democratic candidates to succeed termed out Gavin Newsom. Atkins, who has risen through city politics and filed paperwork to raise money for the 2026 gubernatorial bid, emphasized her experience in policy and budget work. She has received praise and has been actively fundraising, with her announcement anticipated to take place in San Diego's Balboa Park.
State Senator Mike McGuire, a moderate North Coast Democrat, has been chosen as the next leader of the California Senate, replacing Senate Pro Tem Toni Atkins. McGuire's term will be brief, lasting no more than 2 ½ years, as he is termed out in 2026. The decision was made to avoid a divisive and prolonged successor campaign. McGuire's coalition was largely driven by more moderate-leaning senators, but he will likely face pressure to include more progressives, people of color, women, and LGBTQ members in his leadership team.
