Election 2026 updates: Latest on race for California governor and more

The final results for the primary election for California governor are coming into focus.

The final results for the primary election for California governor are coming into focus.

What started as a crowded race with 61 candidates now has three fighting for two spots.

The Republican standout, former Fox News Contributor Steve Hilton, told journalists in Sacramento on Wednesday that Californians need change and a governor who has as good working relationship with the president.

For Democrats, Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra and billionaire Tom Steyer lead the way.

The final results for the primary election for California governor are coming into focus.

Becerra took the stage in Los Angeles Tuesday night after learning he's a frontrunner, saying he hopes to give all Californians a fair shot at the American dream.

More than 24 hours after polls closed, it is still unclear who voters want to lead the Fresno County Office of Education.

More than 24 hours after polls closed, it is still unclear who voters want to lead the Fresno County Office of Education.

The latest vote totals show a tight contest. Incumbent Michele Cantwell-Copher, Ed.D., is in the lead. Behind her, Eimear O'Brien, Ed.D., and Dr. Johnny Alvarado, Ed.D., are nearly even, with the former Clovis Unified superintendent holding a slight advantage.

Alvarado is in a close third place.

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As Representative David Valadao has secured his spot on the ballot in the race for U.S. House District 22 in November, the battle between his two democratic challengers continues.

Rep. David Valadao has secured his spot on the November ballot for US District 22, while the battle between his two challengers continues.

Republican Valadao secured more than two-thirds of the vote, meaning the incumbent is moving forward.

Early vote counts show District 35's Assemblywoman, Dr. Jasmeet Bains, trailing behind her Democratic opponent, Randy Villegas.

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Steve Hilton told reporters on Wednesday that he's "very encouraged" by the current vote count in the California gubernatorial race but that "nothing is final yet."

"Obviously, we're very encouraged by these results," Hilton said. "Nothing is final yet, but it does look as if change is coming to California, and that is good news for everyone, every small business, every working family, everyone who wants to see our state set back on track."

As of 1:20 p.m. PT, with 55% of the expected vote, Hilton is at 28%, followed by Xavier Becerra at 25%, and then Tom Steyer at 20%.

Hilton said he is "confident" that he will be in the top two.

Hilton said he hasn't spoken to President Trump yet, but that he "received a message of congratulations."

Trump posted on Truth Social on Wednesday, "Congratulations to Steve Hilton on coming in first, last night, in the California Vote for Governor. If Californians are smart, which I know they are, they will put Steve into the Governor's Mansion, and watch their State get better at a rate that has probably never been seen before. I know Steve - He is a hard driving WINNER, and he will turn California around, quickly - and the Federal Government will be there, with him, to help! "

ABC News contributed to this report.