Richard
Barrera

The LA Times voter guide, updated October 12, reported Barrera had raised at least $481,000 since the primary, up from the $340,000 figure reported in September, reflecting continued fundraising momentum ahead of the November election.

Reporting highlighted the contrast between Shaw's support for reinstating standardized testing and Barrera's opposition, framing it as a key dividing issue in the superintendent's race.

The East Bay Times editorial board endorsed Richard Barrera for state superintendent, citing his focus on student absenteeism and mental health. The endorsement page was later updated on October 10.

Barrera and Shaw debated key education issues including student achievement, school funding, staffing, and mental health, as well as the restructured responsibilities of the superintendent's office. Barrera described the job as that of 'an organizer' who builds coalitions to improve public schools.

Both superintendent candidates objected to Governor Gavin Newsom's decision to delay release of education funding tied to Proposition 98, with Barrera previously backing the CTA lawsuit over the same funding dispute.

EdSource published a comparison of where both superintendent candidates stand on student achievement, school funding, staffing, and mental health, ahead of the November general election.

Barrera publicly backed a California Teachers Association lawsuit over the state's withholding of $3.9 billion in education funding tied to Proposition 98, stating schools should not be raided at will.

The Los Angeles Times reported Barrera had raised $274,000 in primary contributions and that the California Teachers Association had spent more than $5 million supporting him through independent expenditures including advertising and mail.

In the June 2 primary, Barrera finished second with 20.3% of the vote behind Sonja Shaw at 22.6%, advancing both to the November general election. Eight other candidates were eliminated. The race is officially nonpartisan.

In June 2026, state lawmakers approved a restructuring that removes the superintendent's control of the California Department of Education, shifting it to a governor-appointed education commissioner. Barrera publicly questioned the redefinition of the role, saying the Legislature and governor 'don't get to define my job.'