Attorney General on the June 2 California primary ballot. The full candidate field, the guide's position, and the sources behind it.
Who is running
Three candidates qualified for attorney general, the state's top law enforcement office. Incumbent Rob Bonta is seeking a second full term against a Republican and a Green Party challenger. Per CalMatters, LAist and KPBS.
Rob BontaIncumbent
Democratic
The incumbent attorney general, appointed in 2021 and elected to a full term in 2022, and a former Assemblymember from the East Bay. Per CalMatters and LAist, his office has filed more than 50 lawsuits against the Trump administration on immigration, the environment and federal funding.
Michael E. Gates
Republican
The former Huntington Beach city attorney, who later took a post in the U.S. Department of Justice. Per LAist, he is running on a law-and-order platform and has been a vocal opponent of state sanctuary policy.
Marjorie Mikels
Green
The Green Party candidate, an attorney running from the left of the field. She is the progressive alternative on this ballot and, while a long shot in a statewide race, is included here so voters see the full choice.
The top two finishers on June 2 advance to the November 3, 2026 runoff.
The guide's pick on this race is in the Member Portal voter guide. Member access is free; email barriopower@gmail.com to request.
Sources
Certified candidate list: California Secretary of State sos.ca.gov. County registrar (LA: lavote.gov, OC: ocvote.gov, Ventura: recorder.countyofventura.org). For per-candidate sources, see each candidate's full profile (linked above where available).
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