Tom Steyer's $132M gamble: Can new allies save his California bid?
Billionaire activist Tom Steyer is intensifying his California gubernatorial campaign after a series of high-profile moves. Despite spending over $132 million of his own money, he still trails key rivals in the polls. Now, with new endorsements and a controversial hire, his team is pushing harder for voter support.
Steyer’s campaign took a bold turn this week by bringing in Cenk Uygur, the outspoken co-founder of The Young Turks. Known for backing progressive figures like Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Uygur’s involvement signals a more aggressive strategy. His media platform could give Steyer a louder voice in the final stretch.
Last month, Susie Tompkins Buell, a longtime ally of Hillary Clinton, endorsed Steyer. This connection also brought David Brock, founder of *Media Matters*, into Steyer’s network. Both Brock and Uygur attended a private event at Jane Fonda’s home on Thursday, the same day Steyer’s team hosted a gathering at CAA’s Century City offices. The race has grown more competitive since Rep. Eric Swalwell dropped out. Candidates like Steyer and former Health Secretary Xavier Becerra are now courting Swalwell’s supporters. Yet polls still place Steyer behind Becerra and former Fox News host Steve Hilton, raising doubts about his chances of reaching the runoff.
Steyer’s campaign is betting on Uygur’s influence and high-profile backers to close the gap. With millions spent and time running short, the next weeks will show whether this strategy can shift the race. For now, his place in the runoff remains uncertain.
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