LOS ANGELES (Diya TV) — Billionaire Democratic donor Tom Steyer is taking an unusual path in his bid for California governor. At 68, Steyer, a former hedge fund manager, environmentalist, and presidential candidate, is trying to sell himself as a populist who fights for working Californians.
Steyer has hired top consultants known for progressive campaigns, including the team behind Zohran Mamdani’s successful New York City mayoral campaign. His goal is clear: show voters that a billionaire can genuinely champion the working class.
Steyer’s wealth has always defined him. Forbes estimates his net worth at $2 billion. He owns a Sea Cliff home in San Francisco, a 1,800-acre coastal cattle ranch, and a Lake Tahoe property where President Joe Biden and the first family stayed in 2023. Yet, he says his personal wealth does not prevent him from fighting for ordinary Californians.
In a recent FaceTime interview, Steyer became emotional while discussing the struggles of working people. His voice quivered as he praised the contributions of ordinary Americans who built the system “at the risk of their lives.” “I think I’m just a lucky guy in many ways,” he said. Steyer’s display of emotion appeared genuine, but political observers say voters may be skeptical.
“Over the decades, rich Democrats have convinced voters to trust their populist message,” said Alan Minsky, executive director of Progressive Democrats of America. “Steyer may be able to do the same, but it’s an uphill climb.”
To strengthen his campaign, Steyer has enlisted Fight Agency. This consultancy is known for backing progressive candidates, including Bernie Sanders in 2016 and Ruben Gallego’s Senate campaign. The agency also played a role in Mamdani’s mayoral victory and other high-profile progressive wins.
Rebecca Katz, a Fight Agency partner, initially doubted Steyer’s fit with their mission. “I underestimated him,” Katz said. After a Zoom meeting, she was convinced Steyer understood California’s problems and had concrete solutions. “He is not from the working class. But does he understand the problem and have real solutions? One hundred percent,” she added.
Steyer’s team believes these consultants can help translate his billionaire status into a credible populist narrative.
Steyer has shifted his campaign to focus on economic issues affecting everyday Californians. His proposals include building one million new homes, cutting permitting costs, and stopping Wall Street from buying middle-class properties. He has also highlighted high utility rates and corporate influence in politics.
A recent campaign ad parodies the film Love Actually, showing Steyer holding signs that read: “Utility rates are too high,” “Corporate PAC money is out of control,” and “People can’t afford to live here.” The ad reinforces his populist messaging while keeping a lighthearted tone.
Unlike his 2020 presidential run, which critics labeled a vanity project, Steyer insists he is running to win. “This is really different because I’m running to win,” he said. “I feel like it’s a completely different orientation.”
California’s “jungle primary” system adds uncertainty. The top two candidates advance regardless of party affiliation. With at least ten candidates running for governor, no clear Democratic frontrunner has emerged. Steyer’s personal wealth gives him an advantage in funding a statewide campaign, a critical factor in the crowded field.
Several prominent Democrats have already endorsed Steyer. California Rep. Ro Khanna praised him for offering a “bold, progressive agenda” that could reshape Sacramento politics.
Steyer’s campaign faces a central question: Can a billionaire convince voters he is a true populist? His team believes that with strategic messaging and a focus on economic justice, Steyer can overcome skepticism.
Whether he succeeds will depend on California voters’ willingness to see beyond his wealth and trust his commitment to working people. For now, Steyer is banking on emotion, experience, and a team of skilled consultants to carry him forward in a highly competitive race.
