California’s Governor Race: What They Earn, What They Owe

Ray Appleton's podcast episode dives into the financial profiles of major candidates in California's 2026 gubernatorial race, revealing staggering income disparities and diverse revenue streams. From billionaire Tom Steyer’s $39 million in investment income and $5.4 million in federal taxes to Steve Hilton’s $7.5 million from Fox News and Netflix, the episode paints a vivid picture of wealth, philanthropy, and tax burdens across the political spectrum. Other candidates like Katie Porter, Chad Bianco, and Antonio Villaraigosa share detailed earnings from academic, public service, and consulting roles, while some, like Betty Yee, rely primarily on pensions. The episode questions the real-world significance of these numbers, acknowledging that while the data is surprising and revealing, it doesn’t necessarily determine a candidate’s fitness for office. Appleton reflects on California’s cultural fascination with wealth transparency, suggesting it’s more about curiosity than accountability.