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Six vie for California treasurer as Fiona Ma exits for lieutenant governor race

A high-stakes race unfolds as California's next treasurer will shape pension funds and public investments. Who will voters trust with billions in state money?

The image shows a pie chart depicting the California 2022-2023 budget. The chart is divided into...
The image shows a pie chart depicting the California 2022-2023 budget. The chart is divided into sections, each representing a different budget item, such as income, expenses, and other financial information. The size of each section indicates the amount of money allocated to each budget item.

Six vie for California treasurer as Fiona Ma exits for lieutenant governor race

Six candidates are competing to become California’s next state treasurer. The race includes three Democrats, two Republicans, and one Green Party member. Current Treasurer Fiona Ma is stepping down to run for lieutenant governor instead.

The treasurer oversees the state’s Pooled Money Investment Account and holds seats on the boards of CalPERS and CalSTRS. On the Democratic side, state Sen. Anna Caballero brings a legal background and a focus on affordable housing. She has pledged to support disadvantaged communities if elected. Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, finishing her second term, highlights her business experience and work in international relations. Tony Vazquez, a member of the California State Board of Equalization, plans to retire after serving as treasurer.

The Republican candidates include Jennifer Hawks, a retired businesswoman who stresses the need for stricter oversight and transparency in public finance. David Serpa rounds out the GOP field. Glenn Turner, representing the Green Party, is also in the running. The next treasurer will take charge of managing California’s major financial accounts and pension boards. Voters will decide among six candidates with varied backgrounds in law, business, and government. The winner will replace Fiona Ma, who is shifting her campaign to the lieutenant governor’s race.

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