Villaraigosa Appears Poised To Enter 2018 Governor's Race

(AP) — The presidential contest is dominating headlines, but the toughest campaign in California might be two years away.

The race to replace Gov. Jerry Brown in 2018 is emerging as a potentially historic competition that could bring the state its first Asian governor, the first Hispanic in modern times or the first woman.

Former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa is expected to become a candidate shortly.

Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom is banking cash in advance of a run, and state Treasurer John Chiang sounds like he's getting in.

Former eBay executive Steve Westly is giving it a look, as is climate activist Tom Steyer.

Democrats will be favored in a state where the party controls every statewide office, but some Republican names are circulating, including San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer and Fresno Mayor Ashley Swearengin.