The Race for Governor
California’s governor plays a key role in all policy matters affecting nonprofits, as it is their signature that is ultimately required on any and all legislation impacting our sector. Our state’s nonprofits are facing significant issues with timely payments for grants and contracts, problematic compliance regimes, and workforce sustainability, just to name a few. The 2026 elections present an ideal opportunity to engage with the candidates for Governor so that whoever steps into office in 2027 understands the sector and can work in partnership to strengthen California’s nonprofits.
Through a candidate questionnaire and one-on-one online interviews, CalNonprofits is exploring the candidates’ views on, understanding of, and commitment to supporting California’s 110,000 501(c)(3) public charities. We invite you to join us as we explore the candidates’ views on nonprofits, learn more about how they align with our current policy agenda, and explore their positions on issues that matter most to nonprofits and the communities they serve.
This is just one of the many ways that nonprofits can engage in our democratic process while remaining nonpartisan. And we must, because “if we’re not at the table, we’re on the menu.”
Meet the Candidates 1:1 Webinar Series
CalNonprofits is proud to host our exclusive “Meet the Candidate” 1:1 webinar series – a dedicated space for nonprofit leaders to hear directly from those seeking the state’s highest office. This is your opportunity to hear firsthand how candidates plan to partner with us in strengthening the sector that strengthens California.
View the recorded sessions and stay tuned for new dates:
- Candidate Bianco: April 30 (Watch the recording here)
- Candidate Steyer: May 11 (Watch the recording here)
- Candidate Porter: Confirmed then cancelled; declined to reschedule
All candidates who had qualified for the ballot and were polling at an average of 5% or more in polls released between January 27, 2026 and May 13, 2026 were invited to participate. No other factors were considered.
Disclaimer: These interviews are for informational and educational purposes only and are intended to educate voters on candidates’ stances on issues relevant to our organization’s mission. CalNonprofits is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and is strictly nonpartisan. We do not endorse or oppose any candidate for public office and are prohibited from doing so under federal tax law. Any views expressed in these responses are solely those of the candidates and do not reflect the views or positions of CalNonprofits.
| Candidate | Invitation Response |
|---|---|
| *Becerra (D) | No Response |
| *Bianco (R) | Participated on 4/30/26 |
| *Hilton (R) | Declined |
| *Mahan (D) | Declined |
| *Porter (D) | Confirmed – then Cancelled |
| *Steyer (D) | Participated on 5/11/26 |
| *Swalwell (D) | Declined |
| Thurmond (D) | Did Not Meet Polling Threshold |
| Villaraigosa (D) | Did Not Meet Polling Threshold |
| Yee (D) | Did Not Meet Polling Threshold |
NOTE: An asterisk (*) denotes candidates who met the polling threshold for a Meet the Candidate 1:1 invitation.
Gubernatorial Questionnaire: The Candidates Respond
All candidates included in 2026 public polling were invited to participate in the questionnaire.
Disclaimer: This questionnaire is for informational and educational purposes only and is intended to educate voters on candidates’ stances on issues relevant to our organization’s mission. Our organization is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and is strictly nonpartisan. We do not endorse or oppose any candidate for public office and are prohibited from doing so under federal tax law. Any views expressed in these responses are solely those of the candidates and do not reflect the views or positions of CalNonprofits.
| Candidate | Invitation Response |
|---|---|
| Becerra (D) | No Response |
| Bianco (R) | No Response |
| Hilton (R) | No Response |
| Mahan (D) | No Response |
| Porter (D) | Shared Response |
| Steyer (D) | No Response |
| *Swalwell (D) | Shared Response |
| Thurmond (D) | No Response |
| Villaraigosa (D) | No Response |
| Yee (D) | Shared Response |
NOTE: An asterisk (*) denotes candidate whose response was removed.
CalNonprofits 2026 Policy Platform
The nonprofit sector isn’t just looking for a leader; we’re looking for a partner committed to building a stronger and more collaborative California. Nonprofits are indispensable to California’s success – employing more than 1.4 million Californians and securing the health, safety, and vibrancy of every zip code across the state. As the leading voice for the sector, CalNonprofits presents this policy platform to ensure the organizations anchoring our communities have the structural support to thrive.
- Strengthen government-nonprofit partnerships
- Build the economic strength of the nonprofit sector
- Invest in the health and sustainability of the nonprofit workforce
Read our full policy platform that outlines the path to better partnership.
Nonprofit Civic Engagement Resources
Civic Engagement and Charitable Nonprofit Organizations: Messaging and Response Guidance (National Council of Nonprofits) Messaging points and guidance that help nonprofit leaders confidently communicate the legality and importance of nonpartisan civic engagement, including how to respond if their work is challenged.
Democracy Needs You: 5 Steps Nonprofits Can Take to Support Free and Fair Elections (Nonprofit Quarterly)
An overview of the trusted role nonprofits play in elections and legally permitted ways they can support voter registration, education, and turnout.
Voting in Your State (Nonprofit VOTE)
Direct links to official state election information, so nonprofits can share accurate, up‑to‑date guidance with their communities.
