POLITICS

Tech donors lift San Jose mayor in governor contest

PUBLISHED May 7, 2026, 1:12 AM ET

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SACRAMENTO, Calif. — San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan entered the California gubernatorial race in January and this week is drawing significant backing from Silicon Valley investors, who have funded a Super Bowl advertisement and poured millions into his campaign to elevate his profile ahead of the June 2 primary. The mayor opposes a proposed billionaires' tax and has criticized Gov. Gavin Newsom and the Legislature on homelessness and crime; in three months he reported higher fundraising than many rivals while billionaire Tom Steyer largely self-funds, prompting intensified advertising and outreach as campaigns prepare for the upcoming statewide primary.

By Emily Rhodes | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Mahan grew up in Watsonville, worked as a teacher, and later worked in tech.
He served as San Jose mayor prior to launching a gubernatorial bid.
He announced his gubernatorial campaign in January and positioned himself as a centrist.
Silicon Valley investors funded a Super Bowl ad and donated millions within three months.
The June 2 primary approaches as fundraising and advertising intensify.

News Intelligence

San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan's run for California governor could impact your wallet. He opposes a proposed billionaires' tax. His focus is on addressing homelessness and crime. If you're a California voter, keep an eye on his campaign and his stance on these issues.

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Who Benefited

Major tech investors and business-aligned political donors have increased influence and visibility by funding Matt Mahan’s campaign, using large donations and high-profile advertising to elevate his statewide profile.

Who Impacted

Progressive activists and supporters of wealth taxes, as well as opponents of increased business influence in state politics, face diminished influence as tech-aligned funding reshapes early campaign visibility.

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