California and Iowa Hold Key Primary Elections Ahead of 2026 Midterms

1-Minute Brief

Outcomes in California and Iowa primaries may shape the political landscape leading into the 2026 midterm elections.

Key Facts

• Voters in California and Iowa went to the polls on Tuesday for primary elections, including the Los Angeles mayoral race.
• Polls show Xavier Becerra, Steve Hilton, and Tom Steyer as the leading candidates in California’s governor primary.
• California’s primary uses a nonpartisan system where the top two finishers advance to the general election.
• Homelessness is cited as the top issue among Los Angeles voters in the mayoral primary featuring Karen Bass, Spencer Pratt, and Nithya Raman.
• California election officials indicate that final results could take days to tabulate.

What Happened

Primary elections took place Tuesday in California and Iowa, with voters selecting candidates for key races such as California governor and Los Angeles mayor. Major issues and leading candidates varied by race and region.

Why It Matters

These primaries serve as a critical indicator of voter priorities and party dynamics ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, potentially influencing national strategies and outcomes.

What's Next

Final results in California may not be available for several days due to the volume of ballots and counting procedures. The outcomes will determine which candidates advance to the general election in November.