California Gubernatorial Race Intensifies Amid Primary Concerns

California is bracing for its primary election in two weeks. The state’s jungle primary system has heightened tensions among both Democrats and Republicans. Under this system, the top two vote-getters move on, regardless of their party affiliation. Concerns arise that either party may not secure a spot in the general election.

Governor Gavin Newsom expressed worries over a possible Republican dominance last Thursday, saying he has a contingency plan to avoid Democrats being excluded. He mentioned having a ‘break the glass scenario’ to ensure Democratic representation.

“There’s many people that have a deep understanding of what it would look like if Democrats were locked out, and we’re going to do everything to make sure that doesn’t happen,” Newsom stated.

Steve Hilton, the leading Republican candidate, criticized Newsom’s remarks. He accused the governor of trying to split the Republican vote between Hilton and fellow Republican Chad Bianco. Hilton dismissed the threat of a top-two Republican outcome, given Bianco’s poor polling and fundraising.

Hilton suggested Newsom aims for two Democrats in the final race, which would distract from Newsom’s record as he considers a 2028 presidential bid. RealClearPolitics shows Hilton leading, with Democratic candidate Xavier Becerra close behind, while Bianco lags in fourth.

Hilton called for Bianco to exit the race, to ensure a Republican presence on the ballot. Political analysts note lingering fears among both parties of being shut out in the general election due to the primary system, enacted after a 2010 statewide referendum.

Richard Winger of Ballot Access News highlighted past races, like the 2018 U.S. Senate primary where Republicans were excluded. Former Democratic state Sen. Dario Frommer pointed to similar cases with same-party contests in general elections.

“There was genuine concern early on, given the many Democratic candidates, that Hilton and Bianco could take the top spots,” Frommer noted.

Recent polling suggests Hilton, Becerra, and Democrat Tom Steyer are leading. However, Frommer acknowledged Democrats face challenges too, given lower-than-expected voter turnout.

Democratic strategist Steven Maviglio is leading efforts to abolish the jungle primary system, potentially on the 2028 ballot. He argues it could provoke voter discontent, characterizing the system as a failed experiment.

Elaine Mallon, covering national politics for Fox News Digital and Fox Business, contributed to this report.