As California approaches its gubernatorial primary on June 2, candidates Steve Hilton and Tom Steyer are competing fiercely for the second spot against frontrunner Xavier Becerra. Hilton, a Republican and former commentator, has gained traction following an endorsement from former President Trump, arguing that his candidacy is crucial to prevent a November election featuring two Democrats. He criticizes Steyer's extensive campaign spending and Becerra's ties to corporate interests. Meanwhile, Steyer, who has invested $216 million in his campaign, positions himself as a candidate free from special interest influence, attacking Becerra's corporate support. Becerra, backed by a strong grassroots movement, emphasizes the importance of his campaign in protecting Medicaid and opposing the influence of wealth in politics. Despite a crowded field, voter engagement has been low, with Democratic mail-in ballots returned 9.2% lower than in the previous primary, raising concerns among party leaders about potential outcomes. Political analysts suggest that voter fatigue and recent events, such as wildfires, may be contributing to this apathy.