Silicon Valley backs Matt Mahan for California governor with a $35 million pledge

Silicon Valley tech leaders are backing moderate Democrat Matt Mahan for California governor with a unique $35 million "money-back" fundraising pledge. The campaign is offering donors a refund if the $35 million goal isn't met by April 17, reflecting concerns about Mahan's polling numbers and a belief that this amount is crucial for competitiveness. Mahan, San Jose's mayor and a former tech executive, was initially seen as a strong contender, but his struggle to gain voter traction has led to this unconventional funding strategy.