San Jose's Matt Mahan joins crowded race for California governor
San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan has entered the race for California governor. His campaign will focus on tackling homelessness, expanding housing, and defending democracy. The 43-year-old Democrat brings experience as a former tech entrepreneur and city leader.
Mahan began his political career in 2020 when he won a seat on the San Jose City Council. Three years later, he became the city's mayor. Before politics, he worked in technology and business, positioning himself as a pragmatic problem-solver.
His platform highlights homelessness, an issue he has criticised Governor Gavin Newsom for mishandling. Mahan describes himself as a moderate, a stance that has drawn support from figures like Rick Caruso. The Los Angeles businessman, who ran for mayor in 2022, called Mahan a 'practically minded moderate' and publicly encouraged his gubernatorial bid.
The June open primary will be competitive. Mahan joins a crowded Democratic field that includes former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, Congresswoman Katie Porter, billionaire Tom Steyer, and Health Secretary Xavier Becerra. Other high-profile figures, such as Vice President Kamala Harris, Senator Alex Padilla, and Caruso himself, considered running but ultimately chose not to.
Mahan's campaign will test whether his moderate approach resonates with California voters. If elected, he would take office in 2027, facing immediate challenges on housing and homelessness. The primary results in June will determine whether he advances to the general election.
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