Pro Bitcoin Democrat Ian Calderon Announces Run for California Governor

Former California Assemblymember Ian Calderon has officially launched his campaign for governor in 2026, promising affordable housing, cheaper groceries and gas, and a bold push to make California the nation’s Bitcoin hub. Calderon, a Democrat and longtime Bitcoin advocate, announced his bid on X, saying his generation relies on mobile payments and digital savings while politicians are stuck with outdated solutions.

“California has always been a leader in technology. It’s time for us to be the undisputed leader on Bitcoin,” Calderon declared in a separate post.

The former lawmaker also went further, pledging that as governor he would ensure California holds Bitcoin on its balance sheet and even use it to fund state programs. That proposal would mark a first for the state, which has the largest economy in the U.S. at $4.3 trillion. While lawmakers have advanced a bill to let agencies accept crypto for payments, the idea of a state Bitcoin reserve has gained little traction compared to other states.

Calderon’s candidacy enters a crowded field. Polls currently favor former Democratic Congresswoman Katie Porter, followed by Republican Sheriff Chad Bianco and ex-political adviser and FOX News contributor Steve Hilton. The race intensified after Vice President Kamala Harris ruled out a bid in July, leaving the path open for new contenders.

Calderon is no stranger to blockchain policy. Elected in 2012 at just 27, he became the youngest member of California’s legislature and later chaired the state’s Blockchain Working Group. In 2022, he even collaborated with industry leaders on a proposal to explore Bitcoin as legal tender, though it stalled.

As he mounts his comeback, Calderon hopes his Bitcoin-forward vision will resonate with Californians seeking fresh leadership and new economic opportunities.