Term-limited California Gov. Gavin Newsom said Wednesday he will support whichever Democrat advances to the general election in the state’s governor’s race, but stopped short of endorsing any specific candidate ahead of the June 2 primary.

Speaking at an event in Madera County announcing new state parks, Newsom said he is confident a Democrat will finish in the top two under California’s “top-two” primary system, which advances the two highest vote-getters regardless of party affiliation.

The race to replace Newsom remains competitive, with Republicans Steve Hilton and Chad Bianco currently holding leading positions in some recent polling. Several Democrats, including former federal and state officials, are also competing for one of the two runoff spots.

Candidates participating in the primary include Xavier Becerra, Katie Porter, and entrepreneur Tom Steyer, among others. The field has shifted in recent weeks following the withdrawal of former Rep. Eric Swalwell, who exited amid controversy, and former state controller Betty Yee, who cited fundraising and polling challenges.

Newsom said he has worked with many of the candidates and described them as experienced public officials, but reiterated that voters will ultimately determine the finalists. He added that he plans to support the Democratic nominee once the primary concludes.

The race has become increasingly fluid, with some candidates gaining momentum as others exit. Political analysts say Becerra has recently seen increased support following shifts in the field, though they caution the contest remains unsettled heading into the final stretch.

Under California’s election system, the top two vote-getters in the June primary will advance to the November general election, even if both are from the same party.