Huntington Beach, California, September 16, 2025
News Summary
Ethan Penner, a veteran trader in commercial property financing, has declared his independent candidacy for Governor of California. At 64, he aims to provide an alternative to voters disillusioned with the state’s Democratic leadership. Penner’s campaign is focused on cutting taxes, reducing regulations, addressing homelessness, and improving the business environment. His entry into the race comes amid significant public interest, especially noted during the Future Proof Festival in Huntington Beach. As he faces competition from notable Democrats, Penner’s independent status may appeal to a wide range of voters seeking change.
California
Ethan Penner, a seasoned trader known for revolutionizing commercial property financing, has announced his candidacy for Governor of California as an independent candidate. At 64 years old, Penner seeks to connect with voters who are dissatisfied with the state’s longstanding Democratic leadership while distancing himself from traditional Republican values.
Penner’s campaign goals include cutting taxes, reducing regulations, addressing the worsening homelessness crisis, and enhancing California’s business environment. He unveiled his campaign at the Future Proof Festival in Huntington Beach, an event that attracted thousands of attendees, signaling a strong public interest in his platform.
He describes his entry into the gubernatorial race as a response to California’s current predicament, which he identifies as a crossroad. Key issues include families and businesses leaving the state in search of greener pastures, skyrocketing homelessness rates, and burdensome tax and regulatory frameworks that he believes stifle growth and innovation.
Penner advocates for pragmatic solutions and aims to approach these challenges with a problem-solving mindset shaped by his extensive background in business and finance. He expresses confidence that his independent status will foster dialogue across social divides, creating a cohesive community approach to problem-solving.
His campaign focuses on ensuring quality for future generations of Californians. He brings a wealth of knowledge to the political arena through his previous work in publishing a weekly newsletter and authoring two books. Additionally, he contributes to the education sector by teaching graduate-level courses at the University of Southern California’s Marshall School of Business and Pepperdine University, where he mentors future business leaders.
Background and Achievements
Ethan Penner’s professional career includes notable achievements in the commercial real estate finance industry. He started in the home mortgage sector and is credited with creating the CMBX market during the 1990s while working at Nomura Securities. In 2015, he founded Mosaic Real Estate Investments and is also a co-founder of Reven Office REIT, an organization launched in January 2024 with the goal of raising $1 billion aimed at benefiting office owners and addressing distressed office debt investments.
Penner has expressed criticism regarding current government policies concerning various pressing issues, such as wildfire prevention, the high cost of living in the state, and the continued outmigration of residents who can no longer afford to stay in California.
Election Landscape
As the gubernatorial race heats up, notable Democratic candidates include Xavier Becerra, Eleni Kounalakis, Katie Porter, Antonio Villaraigosa, and Betty Yee. Gavin Newsom, the incumbent governor, is term-limited and will not seek re-election. Candidates aiming for the June 2, 2026 primary election must file by early March.
Penner’s independent candidacy could potentially reshape the electoral landscape in California, appealing to a wide range of voters who may feel disenfranchised by traditional party politics and seeking a new direction for the Golden State.
Key Features of Ethan Penner’s Campaign
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Candidate | Ethan Penner |
| Age | 64 |
| Campaign Focus | Tax cuts, reducing regulations, addressing homelessness, enhancing business climate |
| Background | Creator of CMBS market, Founder of Mosaic Real Estate Investments |
| Education Contributions | Teaches at USC and Pepperdine |
| Major Issues | High living costs, homelessness, wildfire prevention |
| Election Date | June 2, 2026 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Ethan Penner?
Ethan Penner is a businessman and trader known for revolutionizing commercial property financing, who has announced his candidacy for Governor of California as an independent candidate.
What are Penner’s main campaign focuses?
His campaign emphasizes cutting taxes, reducing regulations, addressing homelessness, and enhancing California’s business climate.
When is the election date?
The primary election is scheduled for June 2, 2026.
Who are some of the notable candidates running against Penner?
Notable Democratic candidates include Xavier Becerra, Eleni Kounalakis, Katie Porter, Antonio Villaraigosa, and Betty Yee.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Bloomberg: California Governor Race Gets New Entrant with CMBS Pioneer Ethan Penner
- PR Newswire: Ethan Penner Enters Race for California Governor
- WR News: Ethan Penner Weighs Bid for California Governor
- Bisnow: CMBS Godfather Ethan Penner on CRES Breathtaking Losses
- Connect CRE: Ethan Penner Talks Opportunities at Connect LA
- Wikipedia: Ethan Penner
- Google Search: California Governor Election
- Google Scholar: Ethan Penner
- Encyclopedia Britannica: California Governor
- Google News: Ethan Penner
Author: STAFF HERE HOLLYWOOD
The Hollywood Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHollywood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hollywood, Los Angeles County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Hollywood Bowl summer concerts, the Hollywood Christmas Parade, film premieres at TCL Chinese Theatre, and festivals at the Magic Castle. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and Visit Hollywood, plus leading businesses in entertainment, dining, and tourism that define the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELosAngeles.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HEREAnaheim.com, and HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
