San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan has officially launched a campaign for California governor, stepping into a wide-open 2026 race and presenting himself as a moderate Democrat eager to challenge the state’s political status quo.
Mahan, 43, announced his candidacy on January 29 through social media and campaign materials, describing the decision as deeply personal and motivated by concern for California’s future. He credited encouragement from his wife, Silvia, saying her belief in his leadership helped solidify the move.
Currently serving his first term as mayor after winning office in 2022, Mahan has built a profile as a pragmatic leader willing to break with Democratic orthodoxy, particularly on issues such as homelessness, public safety, and business regulation. With Governor Gavin Newsom barred by term limits from seeking reelection, the race to succeed him has drawn a large and ideologically diverse field.
From Tech Startup to City Hall
Before entering politics, Mahan spent years in Silicon Valley as a technology entrepreneur. He founded and led a startup connected to Facebook’s early platform ecosystem and has spoken openly about guidance he received from figures like Mark Zuckerberg during his early career. His professional network also includes long-standing relationships with prominent tech investors and executives.
That background has become a defining feature of his gubernatorial pitch, with Mahan arguing that California needs leaders who understand innovation, data-driven decision-making, and economic competitiveness.
Breaking With Party Leadership
Mahan has not shied away from criticizing Democratic leadership in Sacramento. On homelessness, he has supported policies that emphasize mandatory shelter usage after repeated offers, coupled with rapid construction of low-cost housing options such as tiny homes. As mayor, he backed a city plan approved in mid-2025 allowing arrests of individuals who repeatedly refuse available shelter.
On crime, Mahan was an outspoken supporter of Proposition 36, a voter-approved 2024 measure that increased penalties for certain theft and drug offenses while expanding treatment mandates. The initiative passed decisively despite opposition from Governor Newsom and many Democratic lawmakers.
Economically, Mahan has positioned himself as pro-growth, opposing proposals such as a union-backed billionaire wealth tax and criticizing what he describes as an adversarial tone toward businesses. His campaign platform emphasizes reducing regulatory barriers, avoiding new taxes, and accelerating housing construction.
Still, Mahan aligns with Newsom on some priorities, including streamlining environmental review laws to boost housing development and continuing state funding for homelessness assistance and mental health programs like CARE Courts.
A Crowded and Unpredictable Field
The 2026 gubernatorial contest remains highly competitive, with no clear front-runner emerging months ahead of the June primary. The field includes numerous prominent Democrats, such as former Cabinet secretary Xavier Becerra, former Rep. Katie Porter, climate activist Tom Steyer, Rep. Eric Swalwell, and former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, along with several others.
Republicans are also seeking to capitalize on voter frustration, with candidates including former media personality Steve Hilton and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco. Early polling has occasionally shown GOP contenders leading individual matchups, a notable development in a state where Democrats hold a significant registration advantage.
California’s top-two primary system means the two highest vote-getters in June will advance to the November general election, regardless of party.
Silicon Valley Support and Skepticism
Mahan’s campaign launch quickly drew praise from several technology and business leaders, underscoring his strong ties to Silicon Valley. Supporters include venture capital figures, startup executives, and real estate developers who view his candidacy as a chance to bring a business-oriented perspective to state government.
His chief strategist, Eric Jaye, and endorsement from Rep. Sam Liccardo – a former San Jose mayor – further reinforce those connections.
However, critics argue that Mahan’s reliance on wealthy donors could alienate progressive voters and labor groups. Some rivals have framed him as too close to powerful interests, while others question whether his local profile can translate into statewide appeal.
Governor Newsom, when asked about Mahan’s criticisms, offered only a brief response, saying he wished the mayor well and declining further comment.
Looking Ahead
Mahan’s entry comes at a strategic moment, just ahead of a televised gubernatorial debate in early February and weeks before the Super Bowl arrives in nearby Santa Clara, an event expected to draw national attention to the region.
The primary election is scheduled for June 2026, with the general election following in November. As the campaign unfolds, Mahan is betting that voters are ready for a centrist, problem-solving message rooted in technology, accountability, and economic growth – even if it means challenging his own party along the way.
Don’t miss the full story behind “Former Illinois Deputy Receives Maximum Sentence in Fatal 2024 Shooting Case”-read this blog for key details and deeper insights into the verdict.
