California Democrats Fear Crowded Gubernatorial Primary Could Lead to Republican Victory

San Francisco – California Democratic leaders are expressing growing concern that a crowded field of candidates vying to replace Governor Gavin Newsom could splinter the vote and unexpectedly pave the way for a Republican victory in the November general election. The state’s unique “jungle primary” system, where the top two vote-getters regardless of party affiliation advance to the general election, is amplifying these fears.

Democratic Concerns and Calls for Unity

At the California Democratic Party’s annual convention on Friday, party chairman Rusty Hicks emphasized the party’s commitment to ensuring a strong Democratic candidate emerges from the primary. “California Democrats are prepared to do what’s required…to ensure we have a strong candidate coming out of the primary to do what’s required in November,” Hicks stated.¹

With nine Democrats competing for the governorship, concerns are rising that the vote will be divided, potentially allowing two Republicans to advance to the general election. Currently, polls indicate that conservative commentator Steve Hilton and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco are leading the Republican field.¹

The “Jungle Primary” System

California’s “jungle primary” system, adopted in 2010, places all candidates – regardless of party affiliation – on a single ballot. The two candidates receiving the most votes then proceed to the general election. This system creates the possibility of a scenario where two Republicans could compete for the governorship in a state overwhelmingly dominated by Democratic voters.⁴

Calls for Candidates to Drop Out

Several Democratic leaders and activists are urging candidates with lower polling numbers to withdraw from the race to consolidate the Democratic vote. Those frequently mentioned as potential candidates to consider stepping aside include 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.¹

However, some candidates are resisting these calls, arguing that the race is still open and voters should be allowed to decide. Lorena Gonzalez, the leader of the California Federation of Labor Unions, indicated that the organization will be discussing the issue with candidates as part of its endorsement process.¹

Party Leaders Express Confidence

Despite the concerns, some prominent Democrats remain optimistic. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi dismissed the fears of a Republican top-two finish, asserting the party’s unity and strength.¹

Potential Consequences for Down-Ballot Races

Leaders like Jodi Hicks, of Planned Parenthood’s California operations, warn that a Republican victory in the gubernatorial race would have “devastating” consequences, particularly for reproductive care funding and turnout in down-ballot congressional and legislative races.¹

The 2026 California Gubernatorial Election

The 2026 California gubernatorial election will grab place on November 3, 2026, to elect the governor of California.¹ The outcome of the primary will be crucial in determining whether Democrats can maintain their decades-long dominance in the state.