California Democratic Chair Urges Gubernatorial Candidates to Drop Out Amidst GOP Upset Fears

California Democratic Party Chair Rusty Hicks is urging Democratic candidates in the state’s crowded gubernatorial race to assess the viability of their campaigns and consider withdrawing before the filing deadline on Friday. The call comes amid concerns that a fractured Democratic field could lead to two Republican candidates advancing to the November general election, despite registered Democrats significantly outnumbering Republicans in the state.

Concerns Over a Republican Lockout

Hicks’ appeal, delivered in an open letter, highlights the risk of a “jungle primary” system – where all candidates compete on the same ballot and the top two vote-getters proceed – potentially “locking out” any Democrat from the general election. This scenario could also depress voter turnout in California, impacting crucial down-ballot races as Democrats aim to regain control of the House of Representatives. Politico and NBC News reported on the unusual plea.

Candidates Respond to the Call

The request has already sparked reactions from candidates. Former state Controller Betty Yee and state Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond both filed paperwork to run for governor within hours of the letter’s release, despite being lower in recent opinion polls. The Associated Press noted these filings.

Thurmond, in a video posted on X, accused the party of attempting to discourage candidates of color from running, echoing concerns raised by former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra at a recent candidate forum. Thurmond specifically criticized the party for seemingly favoring billionaire Tom Steyer, Rep. Eric Swalwell, and former Rep. Katie Porter.

Former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa used Hicks’ letter to call on Becerra to drop out, arguing it would improve the chances of Democrats advancing to the general election. Becerra responded by criticizing Villaraigosa’s past unsuccessful statewide campaigns.

The Risk of a Divided Democratic Vote

With nine Democrats currently in the race, the fear is that the vote will be split, allowing Republican candidates to secure the top two spots. This is despite Democrats holding a nearly 2-to-1 registration advantage over Republicans in California, and no Republican winning a statewide election since 2006. Reuters highlighted this dynamic.

Recent Polling Data

A recent poll by the Public Policy Institute of California indicates that former Rep. Katie Porter, Rep. Eric Swalwell, and hedge fund founder Tom Steyer are leading among Democratic candidates, while conservative commentator Steve Hilton and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco are frontrunners on the Republican side. No other candidate has garnered more than 5% of likely voter support.

Newsom Weighs In

While not directly endorsing Hicks’ call, Governor Gavin Newsom acknowledged the party chair was “wise” to address the issue, stating the election is “critical” for both state governance and national leadership. He suggested he may offer his own input before the June primary.

Labor and Planned Parenthood Express Concerns

Lorena Gonzalez, head of the California Federation of Labor Unions, and Jodi Hicks, CEO of Planned Parenthood Affiliates of California, both voiced concerns about the potential for low-polling Democratic candidates to inadvertently help Republicans advance. They emphasized the high stakes, particularly regarding reproductive freedom and healthcare access.