California, one of the most left-leaning states in the US, is heading to the polls on June 2 for primary elections ahead of November's midterms. The state's unique "jungle primary" system allows any voter to vote for any candidate regardless of party, with the top two advancing to the general election.

With 61 gubernatorial candidates on the ballot, Democratic support is heavily divided, potentially allowing two Republicans to advance. This could lead to a Republican takeover of the governor's office for the first time since 2006.

Former Health Secretary Xavier Becerra leads Democratic candidates with 23% support, followed by Fox News commentator Steve Hilton (20%) and billionaire Tom Steyer (15%). Hilton has been endorsed by former President Donald Trump and campaigned on affordability and voter fraud claims.

The race to replace retiring House Speaker Nancy Pelosi in San Francisco is also contentious. State Senator Scott Wiener, a moderate, faces progressive challengers Saikat Chakrabarti and Connie Chan.

California's new congressional map, redrawn by Democrats, is expected to give them five additional House seats, potentially shifting the balance of power in Congress. Key races include the 22nd district, where Republican David Valadao faces two Democratic challengers.

Source: www.aljazeera.com