A Millennial Candidate Steps Forward
Former California State Assembly Majority Leader Ian Calderon has officially joined the race to succeed Governor Gavin Newsom in 2026. Calderon, who made history as the first millennial elected to the California Assembly at just 27, says the state needs “a new generation of leadership.” Now 39, he is running on a message that young people should have a stronger voice in shaping the laws and policies that will affect their future.
Calderon’s political journey started in Whittier, where he represented the community in the Assembly. Three years after being elected, he became the youngest Majority Leader in state history. According to the Young Elected Leaders Project, the average age of a state legislator in the United States is 51.5 years old, making Calderon stand out as a younger voice. In his words, “We just need a seat at the table.”
He believes politicians must listen to younger generations because they will live with the long-term impact of today’s policies. Calderon has described his perspective as one rooted in urgency, especially when it comes to solving issues like housing, jobs, and affordability.
Tackling California’s Housing and Cost of Living Crisis
At the center of Calderon’s campaign is California’s housing crisis. He argues that the high cost of homes and rent has created what he calls a “system of indentured servitude” for many residents. According to his campaign website, Calderon wants to stop Wall Street firms and foreign investors from buying up entire neighborhoods. He also supports putting a pause on rules and regulations that raise the cost of building homes.
California’s cost of living is one of the highest in the country. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows a single adult needs about $112,000 to live comfortably in the state. The average salary, however, is only about $76,000. For families, the cost is even higher. Entry-level jobs often start around $32,000 per year, according to ZipRecruiter.
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These numbers mean many young workers are either leaving California or moving in with relatives to save money. The state’s unemployment rate currently sits at 5.5%, which translates to roughly one million people without jobs. Calderon believes the answer lies in making it easier for businesses to grow in California. He says that duplicate and unnecessary regulations make it harder for companies to hire and expand.
His campaign platform also promises to veto any new laws that could raise the price of gas. Calderon has called for California to restore energy independence, which he sees as part of lowering everyday costs for residents.
Another focus is childcare. Calderon says families should have more access to affordable childcare so that parents are not forced to choose between working and caring for their kids. These issues, he argues, are tied directly to whether people feel they can raise their families in California.
A Political Legacy and a Crowded Race
Ian Calderon comes from a family with deep political roots. His father, Charles Calderon, served in the state senate. His stepmother, Lisa Calderon, currently holds the Assembly seat Ian once represented. Two of his uncles also held political office before serving time in federal prison for corruption. Despite this complex family history, Calderon has built his own career path as a lawmaker who emphasizes generational change.
Calderon’s campaign has also embraced modern ideas. Supporters can donate using Bitcoin, making him one of the few candidates in the race to accept cryptocurrency. He says the state must also adapt its laws to meet new technologies and the challenges they bring.
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The race to replace Gavin Newsom is already shaping up to be highly competitive. Among Democrats, Calderon faces tough competition from well-known figures such as former Rep. Katie Porter, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, and former California State Controller Betty Yee.
On the Republican side, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco and former Fox News host Steve Hilton have also declared their candidacies.
The primary election is scheduled for June 2, 2026, giving candidates more than a year to win over voters. While polls show housing and affordability remain top priorities for Californians, Calderon says his focus will remain on solving problems inside the state and ensuring the voices of younger generations are heard in Sacramento.
