News Summary
Ethan Penner, a prominent financier, has announced his candidacy for Governor of California as an independent at the Future Proof Festival. His campaign focuses on restoring the ‘California Dream’ by addressing issues like homelessness, tax reduction, and improving the business environment. With a strong background in finance and a commitment to nonpartisan solutions, Penner aims to engage voters seeking new leadership ahead of the June 2026 primary election.
Huntington Beach, California – Ethan Penner, a prominent financier known for pioneering the commercial mortgage-backed securities market, has officially announced his candidacy for Governor of California as an independent candidate. The announcement was made during his keynote address at the Future Proof Festival, which attracted a large audience of thousands of attendees.
Penner’s campaign centers around his pledge to restore the “California Dream.” He aims to tackle critical issues such as homelessness, tax reduction, and enhancing the state’s overall business environment. He argues that California is facing a dire situation due to ongoing mismanagement and ineffective governance.
With a background in finance that includes rising from modest beginnings to holding a significant role at Morgan Stanley in his youth, Penner established himself as a leader in mortgage credit trading. His innovative approach during the early 1990s led to the creation of one of the largest real estate financing institutions in U.S. history, setting the foundation for a new industry amid economic turmoil.
Penner has voiced strong criticisms of the current political leadership in California, asserting that under their governance, the state ranks poorly in terms of poverty, homelessness, and unemployment relative to others in the nation. His diverse experiences of living across the state since the 1970s have fostered a deep connection to California, motivating him to serve its citizens more effectively.
He intends to leverage his creative financial background and problem-solving abilities to bring fresh ideas to government, focusing on nonpartisan solutions to unite Californians across social divides. Currently, he leads Mosaic Real Estate Investors and has also contributed to education as a professor at USC and Pepperdine University, guiding future business leaders. Furthermore, Penner has written two books and maintains a popular newsletter that emphasizes purpose-driven living.
Penner acknowledges the obstacles he might encounter as an independent candidate, particularly within California’s overwhelmingly Democratic political landscape. His message seems to resonate with voters who may be disenchanted by years of Democratic governance but are reluctant to support Republican candidates. The primary election for California’s governor is slated for June 2026, positioning Penner as a potential alternative to conventional political figures.
While Penner will actively seek campaign contributions to fund his election efforts, he has made it clear that he does not plan to utilize personal funds for his campaign. This decision highlights a commitment to transparency and reliance on grassroots support as he navigates the political landscape.
The announcement from Penner reflects a significant moment in the upcoming California gubernatorial race, as he aims to carve out a distinct identity as an independent candidate amidst a field typically dominated by the two major political parties. With the election approaching, Penner is set to engage with voters looking for new leadership and solutions to the state’s pressing challenges.
As California heads towards the gubernatorial primary, Penner will be working to build a coalition of supporters eager for change, hoping his vision and financial acumen will resonate with the electorate.
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Additional Resources
- Bloomberg: California Governor Race Gets New Entrant with CMBS Pioneer Ethan Penner
- Google Search: California Governor race Ethan Penner
- Commercial Observer: California Governor Race – Ethan Penner, CMBS Pioneer
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Ethan Penner
- The Real Deal: Father of CMBS Ethan Penner to Run for Governor of California
- Google News: Ethan Penner California Governor
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COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange 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 OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
