California Attorney General Rob Bonta refrained from confirming a gubernatorial run until after the 2024 election, as he discussed various state issues during a visit to Washington D.C., according to The Sacramento Bee.
Bonta, 51, a Democrat who assumed office in 2021, indicated that while he appreciates encouragement to run for governor, he will decide at a later date. “That time is not now. It will be after the election,” he stated.
In contrast to other announced 2026 gubernatorial candidates like Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, California schools chief Tony Thurmond, state Sen. Toni Atkins, and former state Controller Betty Yee, Bonta currently holds the most campaign funds for a potential run. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra is also mentioned as a possible candidate.
Regarding state matters, Bonta’s interview with The Sacramento Bee highlighted key issues such as homelessness and housing laws. He emphasized the urgent need for more affordable housing in California, noting that the median home price exceeds $800,000. Bonta referenced Proposition 1, which passed in the state’s primary election, aimed at increasing funding for homelessness housing and behavioral health treatment.
Bonta’s office is investigating TikTok and suing Meta over concerns about addictiveness and harm to children. He expressed frustration with the pace of the investigation, citing concerns about children being exposed and harmed by social media platforms.
Additionally, Bonta criticized federal measures that could preempt California’s stringent data privacy laws, advocating for the removal of clauses that could undermine existing state protections. He highlighted the importance of consumers having control over their personal data online and expressed concerns about potential privacy violations if federal laws supersede California’s regulations.
