Buzz Grows for Possible Padilla California Governor’s Run

Padilla sidesteps questions about a possible run for governor, says he is focused on redistricting

U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla's name has emerged in recent days as a potential new entry in the 2026 race to replace termed-out Gov. Gavin Newsom. He demurred on Wednesday when asked when he planned to mount a campaign, saying he was solely focused on passing the special election in November.

Is Sen. Alex Padilla eyeing a run for California governor? Here's what we know

According to Politico, U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla is reportedly considering a run to replace Gov. Gavin Newsom, who terms out at the end of 2026.

Buzz Grows for Possible Padilla California Governor’s Run

“The rumor mill is hitting overdrive that Sen. Alex Padilla is contemplating a bid for California governor — and it’s not just idle talk,” Politico reports. “A prominent political entity in Sacramento is currently in the field polling the 2026 governor’s race with Padilla’s name included as a potential candidate.”