Dan Henderson Backs Chad Bianco for California Governor, Criticizes Newsom Over State Challenges

Dan Henderson Backs Chad Bianco for California Governor, Criticizes Newsom Over State Challenges

EXCLUSIVE: Former UFC champion Dan Henderson has officially endorsed Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco in the race for California Governor in 2026, as he revealed to Fox News Digital.

Bianco, a Republican, has garnered significant attention, leading a recent poll conducted by the University of California, Berkeley. In this poll, he outpaced his Republican opponent Steve Hilton and the leading Democrat candidate Katie Porter.

Henderson’s support for Bianco stems from the sheriff’s decision during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, Bianco notably chose not to enforce the state’s stringent stay-at-home orders and mask mandates.

Reflecting on Bianco’s approach, Henderson stated, “It was kind of a blessing that he didn’t shut everything down. While we were being responsible, I admired how he managed the situation.” He pointed out the potential negative impact on businesses if they had been forced to close permanently.

Henderson elaborated, saying, “Many business owners would have shut their doors, leading to significant losses. Bianco’s common sense approach prevented that panic and distress that so many experienced during that time.”

Challenges Under Current Leadership

As a lifelong resident of California, Henderson has faced a variety of challenges under the governance of Gavin Newsom and his Democratic party. While Henderson plans to remain in California, he has noticed many of his close friends relocating to states like Texas, Tennessee, and Florida in search of better opportunities.

Rising Gas Prices and Energy Policy

Henderson expressed his frustrations regarding the state’s soaring gas prices. He shared that filling his Grenadier’s tank costs around $100 due to California’s high fuel costs. He urges the next governor to leverage California’s offshore oil resources to lower gas prices and reduce dependence on foreign oil.

“We pay the highest gas prices in the nation,” Henderson remarked. “There is a wealth of oil beneath our state, yet we buy from others, leading to a persistent budget deficit. We must utilize our natural resources more effectively.”

Views on Immigration and Law Enforcement

Henderson also addressed immigration, emphasizing that everyone should enter the country legally. He mentioned his friends who are legal immigrants and their preference for lawful immigration processes. He believes immigration should mirror the standards required for entering other nations.

Recent tensions between law enforcement and protestors have marked California’s landscape, particularly concerning Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE. In June 2025, an anti-ICE protest in downtown Los Angeles turned violent when protesters allegedly attacked federal agents.

Henderson criticized the legislative measures that limit the effectiveness of ICE agents. He noted that the laws, which prevent federal and local law enforcement from concealing their identities while on duty, hinder ICE’s ability to conduct operations effectively. “ICE’s mission is to protect everyone by combating criminal elements, yet they face significant obstacles imposed by our own laws,” he stated.

Education Policies and Gender Issues

California’s education policy, which permits biological males to participate in girls’ sports, is another issue that has drawn Henderson’s ire. He contended that this policy undermines the opportunities of female athletes. Henderson shared his belief that competition should reflect biological differences to ensure fairness.

“It’s unjust for women athletes who train rigorously to compete against biological males. In many sports, the competitive balance is inherently skewed, leaving female athletes at a disadvantage,” he asserted.

While Newsom has publicly acknowledged the disparities caused by this policy, his inaction on the issue has been a point of contention for Henderson, who remarked, “It seems he isn’t genuinely invested in finding a solution.”

Questions About Natural Disasters and State Management

The management of California’s resources during natural disasters has also been under scrutiny. Henderson expressed disappointment in Newsom’s response to devastating wildfires that occurred earlier this year, criticizing the lack of preparation and water resources during the crisis.

“Newsom failed to ensure everything was properly managed. The insufficient water reserve, which some people may not have understood, was certainly an issue he must have realized,” Henderson explained.

In response to these concerns, Newsom announced an independent investigation related to the loss of water pressure in Los Angeles, attributing it to inadequate planning. He called the situation “deeply troubling,” as it likely impeded firefighters’ efforts to safeguard communities during emergencies.

Charting a New Course for California

Henderson’s candid assessment of California’s struggles indicates a desire for change. As he champions Bianco’s candidacy, he advocates for responsible resource management, sensible immigration policies, and fair treatment for all residents. As the gubernatorial race heats up, the stakes for California’s future become increasingly clear.

With rising tensions around education, immigration, and governance, Henderson’s insights suggest that voters are ready for a reevaluation of the state’s direction. The 2026 election could very well serve as a pivotal moment for California, shaping public policy for years to come.