California Democrats are increasingly anxious as a crowded and lackluster field of gubernatorial candidates suggests that two Republicans might advance in the upcoming June primary.
The idea of a “zombie campaign” potentially leading to the first Republican governor since Arnold Schwarzenegger stepped down in 2011 is causing quite a stir. One Democratic legislator remarked, “This is an unprecedented race, and I’m genuinely concerned about the prospect of two extreme Republicans making it through.”
At the California Democratic Party convention in San Francisco this past weekend, another lawmaker voiced criticism of the current leadership under Chairman Rusty Hicks, stating that the board is not pressuring candidates to drop out. In November, only the top two candidates will progress from the jungle primary, irrespective of their party affiliation.
“You’d think the party chair would be doing something proactive to avert disaster,” said another state legislator. “But I just don’t hear anything.”
Current polling indicates that two Republicans, former Fox News host Steve Hilton and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, are leading with 17% and 14% support, respectively.
On the Democratic side, support is nearly evenly split among candidates like Rep. Eric Swalwell (14%), former Rep. Katie Porter (12%), and progressive billionaire Tom Steyer (9%).
Other Democratic hopefuls trying to gain traction include San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, State Superintendent Tony Thurmond, and former Health Secretary Xavier Becerra.
Despite the rising concern among Democratic figures, Hicks, who has chaired the state party since 2019, expressed confidence that the situation will sort itself out. He stated, “The California Democratic Party will do what’s necessary to ensure a viable candidate emerges from the primary.”
However, a political consultant involved in a Democratic campaign seemed less optimistic. “Only two people could influence others to step back: [Gov.] Gavin Newsom and Nancy Pelosi,” the source conveyed.
During her convention address, Pelosi made only a fleeting reference to the importance of electing a Democrat in the crucial gubernatorial race.
Villaraigosa, polling at just 3 percent, attended a party at Tropisueño, a Mexican restaurant, and insisted he wouldn’t withdraw from the race. “At the end of the day, everyone has the right to run. The notion that two Republicans could advance? That’s just absurd,” he said.
Pressed about his chances of winning, Villaraigosa confidently stated, “There’s no doubt about it.”
In contrast, San Francisco City Supervisor Matt Dorsey, backing Mahan, seemed less certain. “Democrats are rightly worried when two Republicans are polling well. We aren’t unifying around any candidate,” he noted. “I’m relieved I’m not a consultant for anyone in this election; it’s bound to be quite a spectacle.”
