Longtime law enforcement officer Chad Bianco has officially announced his candidacy for California governor, positioning himself as a challenger to the policies of Democratic incumbent Gavin Newsom. The Riverside County sheriff made his declaration on Presidents Day, pledging to bring back economic stability, enhanced public safety, and rational governance to a state he believes is straying off course.
Chad Bianco Launches Bid for California Governor, Challenges Newsom

Chad Bianco Launches Bid for California Governor, Challenges Newsom
Riverside County sheriff Chad Bianco officially kicks off Republican campaign focused on restoring California's leadership and addressing economic and safety issues.
“I love this state, but it’s clear we’ve been descending for years,” Bianco stated firmly during his campaign launch. He criticized the entrenched political strategies in Sacramento, claiming they consist of repeated failed policies that impact everyday Californians.
Bianco highlighted urgent issues, such as skyrocketing living costs, heavy regulations, and burdensome taxes that plague the state. He also pointed out California's energy reliability problems and challenges faced by the agricultural sector. “Californians deserve leaders who prioritize their affordability and infrastructure needs,” Bianco emphasized.
With over three decades of law enforcement experience, Bianco has consistently voiced his critiques through various platforms, particularly regarding crime policies that have escalated under Newsom. In a notable endorsement, he supported Donald Trump’s presidential campaign in May 2024 which catapulted him into the national spotlight for his strong views on safety and criminal justice reform.
Bianco specifically laid blame for an uptick in crime on Newsom's policies, stating, “For 30 years, I have dedicated my work to keeping our communities safe.” He expressed frustration over budget cuts and prison closures enacted by the current administration, which he argues have contributed to increased lawlessness.
The sheriff also accused the state government of having a misguided approach towards crime, treating offenders as victims rather than holding them accountable. “There appears to be a prevailing belief that criminals are victims of societal issues rather than responsible for their actions,” said Bianco.
As he steps into a competitive election landscape filled with candidates aiming to unseat Newsom, Bianco’s law-and-order message resonates with voters increasingly concerned about crime rates and economic challenges. His campaign is anticipated to attract those yearning for significant political change in California.
Bianco highlighted urgent issues, such as skyrocketing living costs, heavy regulations, and burdensome taxes that plague the state. He also pointed out California's energy reliability problems and challenges faced by the agricultural sector. “Californians deserve leaders who prioritize their affordability and infrastructure needs,” Bianco emphasized.
With over three decades of law enforcement experience, Bianco has consistently voiced his critiques through various platforms, particularly regarding crime policies that have escalated under Newsom. In a notable endorsement, he supported Donald Trump’s presidential campaign in May 2024 which catapulted him into the national spotlight for his strong views on safety and criminal justice reform.
Bianco specifically laid blame for an uptick in crime on Newsom's policies, stating, “For 30 years, I have dedicated my work to keeping our communities safe.” He expressed frustration over budget cuts and prison closures enacted by the current administration, which he argues have contributed to increased lawlessness.
The sheriff also accused the state government of having a misguided approach towards crime, treating offenders as victims rather than holding them accountable. “There appears to be a prevailing belief that criminals are victims of societal issues rather than responsible for their actions,” said Bianco.
As he steps into a competitive election landscape filled with candidates aiming to unseat Newsom, Bianco’s law-and-order message resonates with voters increasingly concerned about crime rates and economic challenges. His campaign is anticipated to attract those yearning for significant political change in California.