Steyer sinks $195 million into California campaign for marginal polling gains
Billionaire Tom Steyer, a Democrat who’s running for governor of California, broke the record for the most money spent on a political campaign this year with an advertising buy worth at least $195 million.
TL;DR
- Tom Steyer has spent at least $195 million on his California gubernatorial campaign, setting a new record.
- Despite heavy spending, Steyer generally trails Democrat Xavier Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton in polls.
- Steyer's campaign released polling showing him tied with Becerra and behind Hilton, highlighting a close race.
- Steyer's campaign manager claims Steyer has momentum and is appealing to voters seeking an outsider.
- Steyer's spending is significantly higher than Becerra's approximately $9.75 million.
- Former Rep. Katie Porter criticizes Steyer's spending, stating he is trying to 'buy the governor's office'.
- California uses a nonpartisan primary where the top two candidates advance to the general election.