The Democratic governor of California has survived a recall election, according to US media.

According to US media, California Governor Gavin Newsom appeared to have survived a rare state-wide vote to remove him with a clear majority.

Republicans launched the election campaign in response to his handling of the outbreak.

The Democrat, who is in the third year of his four-year tenure, faced a field of 46 candidates and was anticipated to win easily.

President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris both campaigned alongside Mr. Newsom ahead of the election.

"I'm humbled and appreciative to the millions and millions of Californians who exercised their fundamental right to vote," Newsom said during his victory speech in Sacramento.