Concerns Over Democratic Candidates in California Gubernatorial Race
Comedian and former Daily Show host Jon Stewart expressed concern that the number of Democratic candidates in California’s gubernatorial race could inadvertently help Republicans secure a victory. He discussed this topic with San Jose’s Democratic Mayor Matt Mahan during an appearance on his show.
When Stewart inquired about Mahan’s motivation for running, the mayor responded with a hint of humor. “Well, John, I didn’t think there were enough people running for governor,” he joked, highlighting that he is one of eight Democrats competing for the state’s top position, all slated for the November ballot. In contrast, the Republican side has only two candidates vying to take over from incumbent Governor Gavin Newsom. Unlike states with a traditional two-party system, California allows multiple candidates from the same party on the ballot.
However, Mahan’s quip raised some alarms for Stewart. “So you’re saying there are two or three Republicans running, eight or nine Democrats, 10 or 11, maybe even 20?” Stewart exaggeratedly remarked. “It’s a great plan, and it’s typical of Democrats to split the vote into very difficult areas so that only two Republicans are left standing.” He added, “So smart, so typical!”
Mahan pointed out that the “undecided” votes currently outperform all candidates, adding to Stewart’s apprehension. Yet, Mahan remains optimistic about his record in San Jose, where he has received positive feedback for his homelessness policies and frames himself as a pragmatic option for voters.
Stewart’s concerns about the potential for losing seats in November seem justified. A recent poll from Politico indicates that Republican Steve Hilton is in the lead at 19%. Following him is Democrat Tom Steyer with 13% and Democrat Eric Swalwell with 11%. Interestingly, Republican Chad Bianco also garnered 11%, and Democrat Katie Porter follows closely with the same percentage. Among the remaining six Democrats, all have registered less than 6% support.
As for Mahan, he is currently positioned eighth in the polling with just 3%. He noted that 17% of voters remain “undecided,” which complicates the race further.
