Former California Assembly member Ian Calderon, 39, has officially entered the Democratic primary to replace Governor Gavin Newsom in next year’s high-profile California governor race. Calderon, who made history as the youngest majority leader in state Assembly history, is positioning himself as a fresh, tech-savvy voice for a new generation of Californians.

“I believe California should be the best place in the world to raise a family, buy a home, and build a future,” Calderon said in his campaign announcement. “To achieve that, we need a new generation of leadership ready to tackle the real challenges facing families today.”

Story Highlights:

• Ian Calderon, 39, launches campaign for California governor race.

• Pledges to address gas prices, housing affordability, child care costs, and cryptocurrency adoption.

• Key Democratic rivals include Xavier Becerra, Katie Porter, and Antonio Villaraigosa.

• GOP candidates include Chad Bianco and Steve Hilton.

• California Democrats outnumber Republicans nearly 2-to-1; GOP has not won statewide in almost 20 years.

• Calderon comes from a politically connected family with a long legacy in California politics.

Calderon first entered the political scene in 2012 as the first millennial elected to the California Assembly at just 27 years old. He quickly rose to become the youngest majority leader in the state’s history. However, Calderon chose not to seek reelection in 2020, citing a desire to spend more time with his wife and young children.

Since stepping away from the Assembly, Calderon has kept a visible presence in political conversations, often emphasizing issues that resonate with younger voters. In his latest campaign video, he highlighted pressing issues such as rising gas prices, affordable housing shortages, and the growing costs of child care.

“We are facing real challenges that impact families directly,” Calderon said. “I’m committed to finding practical solutions that make life more affordable for everyday Californians.”

In addition to traditional policy issues, Calderon is positioning himself as a forward-thinking, tech-friendly candidate. During a livestream event titled “Crypto Town Hall,” he proposed using cryptocurrency like bitcoin to fund various state programs. “Once I’m governor, I’m going to make sure that we hold bitcoin on our balance sheet,” Calderon said, emphasizing his belief in integrating innovative financial technologies into government.

The California governor race has already attracted several notable Democrats, including former Biden administration Health Secretary Xavier Becerra, former U.S. House member Katie Porter, and former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. On the Republican side, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco and conservative commentator Steve Hilton have announced their campaigns.

California Democrats enjoy a strong advantage in statewide elections, outnumbering registered Republicans by nearly 2-to-1. Republicans have not won a statewide office in nearly two decades, making the Democratic primary a key battleground for potential leadership shifts.

Calderon’s political lineage also underscores his prominence in California politics. He succeeded his father, Charles Calderon, in the Assembly, while two of his uncles, Ron and Tom Calderon, also served in the state Legislature before being convicted on public corruption charges in 2016. His stepmother, Lisa Calderon, later replaced him in the Assembly.

As the California governor race heats up, Ian Calderon’s campaign highlights a combination of youthful leadership, family-focused policy promises, and a willingness to embrace new technologies, setting him apart in a crowded Democratic field.

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