The 2006 California gubernatorial election remains a historic outlier in state political history
In short: When Arnold Schwarzenegger won re-election in 2006, he secured a victory that would become a long-standing anomaly. It stands as the most recent instance of a Republican winning a statewide election in California and the last time a governor and lieutenant governor of opposing parties were elected together.
The 2006 election cycle began with a primary on June 6, 2006, where incumbent Republican Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger faced minimal opposition. His path to the general election was straightforward, unlike the Democratic primary, which featured a competitive race between State Treasurer Phil Angelides and State Controller Steve Westly. Despite polls suggesting Westly might be a stronger challenger against the incumbent, Angelides secured the party nomination with 47.9% of the vote. Voter engagement was notably low, with the primary turnout reaching a record low of 33.6%.
Schwarzenegger’s political standing had fluctuated significantly leading up to the November 7, 2006, general election. Following a 2005 special election and various policy disputes with teachers' and nurses' unions, his approval rating had dipped to 39% by April 2006. However, his popularity rebounded, allowing him to defeat Angelides by a wide margin. The electoral map reflected this strength, as Schwarzenegger carried 52 of California's counties, including large majorities in rural areas and populous regions like San Diego, Orange, and Riverside. Angelides found his strongest support in Alameda and San Francisco counties.
The election results highlighted deep demographic divides. Exit polls indicated that Schwarzenegger captured the majority of White and Asian American voters, while Angelides performed better among African American and Latino voters. Beyond the gubernatorial outcome, the election marked the final time California voters chose a governor and lieutenant governor from different political parties. As of 2026, this contest remains the last time a Republican candidate successfully won a statewide election in California, cementing its status as a unique turning point in the state's modern political trajectory.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: 2006 California gubernatorial election
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