Concerns are mounting within the California Democratic Party as discussions arise about the potential for a crowded gubernatorial primary to split the vote, threatening to pave the way for a surprising Republican victory in the upcoming November election. With nine prominent Democrats vying for the position, party leaders are urging some candidates to consider withdrawing from the race.
At the annual California Democratic Party convention held in San Francisco, state party chairman Rusty Hicks emphasized the urgency of identifying a strong candidate who can unify the party and secure a victory in November. “California Democrats are prepared to do what’s required,” Hicks asserted, highlighting the need for a collective effort to avoid a division that could benefit the Republicans.
Currently, the Democratic field includes significant figures such as state Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, former state Controller Betty Yee, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, and former Assembly Majority Leader Ian Calderon, all of whom are polling lower than their main opponents. Under California’s “jungle primary” system, the top two candidates regardless of party affiliation will advance, leading to fears that the leading Republicans—commentator Steve Hilton and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco—could secure the top positions with only 15.5% of voter support, as opposed to the leading Democrat, Rep. Eric Swalwell, who is at 12.5%.
Historically, California Democrats have maintained a strong voter registration advantage. They have not seen a Republican elected to statewide office since 2006, which raises the stakes for the current primary as the party must respond to the dynamic electoral landscape. Instances from past elections, like the 2012 congressional race in a San Bernardino district, serve as cautionary tales where split votes allowed Republicans to triumph in a majorly Democratic district.
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi addressed the fears surrounding a potential Republican runoff, reaffirming the unity within the Democratic Party. “That’s not going to happen,” she declared, emphasizing the strength that comes from the party’s diversity and collective commitment to winning.
Despite the prevailing anxiety amongst party leaders, some candidates and supporters have voiced their discontent with the pressure to exit the race. Tony Thurmond’s campaign manager defended his commitment to engage undecided voters, stating that the race is still very much alive. Meanwhile, criticisms arose regarding attempts to prematurely eliminate candidates, with some deeming these measures as undemocratic.
Discussions around candidate endorsements and possible exits are intensifying, with cautionary statements from various factions within the party. Jodi Hicks from Planned Parenthood underscored the consequential nature of the gubernatorial outcome on congressional and legislative races, stressing the importance of having a Democratic governor as a partner in Sacramento.
As the convention concludes, the path forward may also involve strategic withdrawals, but the underlying message from party leaders remains clear: a focused and cohesive Democratic effort will be crucial to preserving their political supremacy in California’s gubernatorial landscape. Significant movements in the coming weeks may shape the results of the primary, with hopes centered on aligning behind a singular candidate who represents the party’s shared values and vision.