In a bid to succeed California Governor Gavin Newsom, Toni Atkins, a San Diego Democrat and seasoned legislative leader, officially announced her candidacy for the governorship in 2026. Atkins, who has a notable political career and a groundbreaking profile, aims to set herself apart from the crowded field of contenders vying for the position.

Atkins has previously made history as the first openly lesbian Assembly Speaker, as well as the first woman and LGBTQ+ individual to lead the Senate. Highlighting her extensive experience in elected office, she believes her record demonstrates that she is the most qualified candidate for the role.

As the current Senate leader, Atkins has been at the helm of California's legislative affairs, negotiating budget deals and championing important policy priorities such as affordable housing and abortion rights. However, despite her influential role in the Capitol, Atkins acknowledges the challenge of building name recognition among the state's voters.

Aware of the hurdles ahead, Atkins expressed her determination to introduce herself to people across California, recognizing the need to raise funds for her campaign. Drawing a contrast to other candidates, she emphasized her humble upbringing, lacking the financial resources to rely upon, and highlighted her experience in fundraising as a Speaker and Pro Tem for her caucuses.

Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, a former ambassador and major Democratic donor, declared her candidacy last spring, emphasizing the importance of becoming the state's first female governor. Betty Yee, a former state controller, also joins the field, further vying for the historic opportunity. The competition is abundant with potential 'firsts,' as Atkins could become the state's first LGBTQ+ leader. Additionally, Attorney General Rob Bonta, who is Filipino American, could potentially become the first Asian American governor, while Tony Thurmond, the state schools chief, could secure the distinction of being the first Black and Latino person to hold the top job.

Atkins officially launched her gubernatorial campaign on February 5, with prominent figures such as California Secretary of State Shirley Weber and her political mentor Christine Kehoe in attendance. Reflecting on her journey, Atkins acknowledged her initial doubts that she would reach this point due to feeling different, poor, and gay. Despite not assuming her story alone guarantees success, Atkins believes that her experience defines her aspirations.

Prior to her political career, Atkins served as a director of a women's health clinic and entered local government, eventually winning a seat on the City Council in 2000. In 2010, she was elected to the Assembly, later assuming the speakership in 2014. Making an unconventional move, Atkins challenged a sitting Democrat for a state Senate seat the following year, ultimately winning the position in 2017. Her ascendancy continued in 2018 when she became Senate leader, becoming only the third individual in state history to hold the top job in both chambers.

Known for her Southern drawl and unassuming demeanor, Atkins enjoys widespread popularity among political insiders. While her leadership roles have encountered relatively few controversies, scrutiny arose concerning her spouse Jennifer LeSar's affordable housing consulting business and its connection to Atkins' growing Capitol influence.

Atkins expressed understanding that her previous roles may not have positioned her as the highest-profile figure in California politics during the tenures of Newsom and former Governor Jerry Brown. Nevertheless, she assured that she possesses a vision for her governance and is resolute in how she intends to execute it.

As the race for California's next governor continues to gain momentum, Atkins' entrance into the fray adds another dynamic to the growing field. With her impressive political background and her commitment to breaking barriers, she aims to capture the attention and support of voters across the state in her quest for the governor's office in 2026.