Antonio Villaraigosa has announced his candidacy for governor, joining a competitive field that includes other contenders such as San Diego lawmaker Toni Atkins and state Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis. Villaraigosa, a former Los Angeles mayor and state assemblyman, made his announcement on July 22 through a YouTube video. He emphasized his background as a problem solver and his commitment to leading the state.
In the 2018 primary, Villaraigosa lost to Governor Gavin Newsom, who ultimately won the general election. Despite facing strong competition from fellow Democrats, including Atkins and Kounalakis, Villaraigosa is determined to make another bid for the governor’s office.
Other notable politicians who have announced their candidacy for governor include Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond and former Controller Betty Yee. Villaraigosa, who grew up in East Los Angeles and overcame challenges to pursue education, highlighted his achievements in advancing civil rights and public safety during his tenure as mayor of Los Angeles.
Throughout his career, Villaraigosa has championed various causes, including education reform and healthcare access for low-income children. He has a track record of working across party lines to address critical issues facing California. As the state gears up for the 2026 gubernatorial election, Villaraigosa is positioning himself as a candidate with the experience and vision to lead the state forward. Please rewrite this sentence.
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