California Gubernatorial Campaign: Strategic Moves and Concerns

California Republican gubernatorial frontrunner Steve Hilton criticized Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom for what he called ‘fear mongering.’ Newsom had indicated he had a plan if Democrats risked being excluded from the general election. The primary election in California is approaching, and the state’s jungle primary system allows the top two candidates to advance, regardless of party affiliation. Both parties worry about being unrepresented in the general election.

Newsom expressed concern about a potential Republican shutdown at a news conference. He mentioned having a “break the glass scenario” to prevent Democrats from being “locked out.” These comments sparked criticism from Hilton, who suggested Newsom’s remarks aimed to divide Republican voters between him and Republican candidate Chad Bianco.

“He’s not trying to stop a ‘top two Republican’ outcome because that is not possible and never was,” Hilton stated.

Hilton argued that having two Democrats advance would shift attention away from Newsom’s record, as Newsom eyes a 2028 presidential run. According to RealClearPolitics’ polling averages, Hilton leads among candidates, followed closely by Democratic candidate Xavier Becerra, with Bianco trailing.

Political analysts warn of valid concerns from both parties about the jungle primary system, implemented after a 2010 voter-approved referendum. They cite past examples where party candidates were excluded due to this system. Former Democratic state Sen. Dario Frommer explained that initially, there was concern that Democrats might be shut out because of multiple candidates dividing votes; however, current polling suggests a likelihood of Hilton and Democrats like Becerra being the top contenders.

Frommer noted that typically, more voters have cast ballots by this point, raising concerns about low turnout among Democrats. Democratic strategist Steven Maviglio is considering a ballot initiative to eliminate the jungle primary system, potentially appearing in 2028. This campaign arises from worries that voter dissatisfaction might increase if the system results in two same-party candidates on the general election ballot.