California voters pick from 60 candidates in governor primary
Why it matters: The state's top-two system could let two Republicans reach November if Democrats split their vote.
California voters were casting ballots Tuesday in a crowded primary to replace term-limited Gov. Gavin Newsom, with roughly 60 candidates competing under the state's top-two system. The field includes Democrats Xavier Becerra, Katie Porter, Tom Steyer, Matt Mahan and Antonio Villaraigosa, along with Republicans Steve Hilton and Chad Bianco. The format sends the two highest vote-getters to the general election regardless of party, raising the possibility that Democrats could be shut out in heavily Democratic California if their support fractures. The race has centered on the state's high cost of living, including gas prices of $6.08 a gallon, steep housing costs and high electricity rates.