Toni Atkins, the former speaker of the California Assembly and president pro tem of the state Senate, ended her campaign for governor Monday.

Atkins, a San Diego Democrat, entered the race with years of Capitol experience and fundraising prowess, but admitted in a letter to supporters that “there is simply no viable path forward to victory.” Her move further solidifies the crowded field of candidates vying for the state’s top job in 2026.

“From my time on the San Diego City Council and as Acting Mayor, to serving as Speaker of the Assembly, and later leading the State Senate, we’ve gotten a lot done,” Atkins wrote. “My intention was to build on that progress, to bring real solutions from day one, and to do good work for the people.”

“That’s why it’s with such a heavy heart that I’m

See Full Page