The California gubernatorial race is heating up ahead of the primary election, as Republican frontrunner Steve Hilton criticizes Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom’s remarks about potential election outcomes. Tensions rise due to California’s jungle primary system, which could lead to both Democrats and Republicans being excluded from the general election.
Newsom’s Potential Contingency Plan
Governor Newsom recently expressed concerns about a Republican shutdown in the upcoming primary. He mentioned having a “break the glass scenario” to prevent Democrats from being “locked out” of the general election. Newsom’s comments have stirred debate and worry among political figures, as the primary election is only two weeks away.
Hilton’s Criticism
Steve Hilton argued that Newsom’s comments aim to split Republican voters between Hilton and Republican candidate Chad Bianco. Hilton insists that Bianco does not have a realistic chance of being in the top two vote-getters due to his low ranking in polls and fundraising. Hilton believes Newsom prefers a scenario where two Democrats face off, deflecting attention from Newsom’s political record while he potentially prepares for a 2028 presidential bid.
Current Polling and Political Concerns
RealClearPolitics indicates Hilton leads the candidate pack, with Democratic candidate Xavier Becerra closely trailing. Bianco ranks in fourth place. Hilton has suggested Bianco should withdraw from the race to bolster the possibility of a Republican being on the ballot. Political experts highlight fears that either party may be excluded from the general election due to the jungle primary system, which has affected previous races.
Historical Context and Party Concerns
“The Republicans were shut out in the California U.S. Senate primary in 2018 when Kamala Harris and Rep. Linda Sanchez topped the votes,” noted former Democratic State Senator Dario Frommer.
Frommer and Ballot Access News owner Richard Winger indicate the unique tensions as the gubernatorial race unfolds, with no apparent winner currently visible. Though Democrats initially feared Hilton and Bianco would lead, changing factors in polling now suggest Hilton, Becerra, and Democratic candidate Tom Steyer may be the top contenders.
Potential Change to Jungle Primary System
Amid concerns, Democratic strategist Steven Maviglio is spearheading a campaign to remove the jungle primary system, possibly placing the measure on the 2028 ballot. Maviglio highlights voter dissatisfaction with the primary system and believes outrage may grow if voters feel they were adversely affected.
Elaine Mallon is a journalist for Fox News Digital and Fox Business, focusing on nationwide politics.