California Republican gubernatorial frontrunner Steve Hilton criticized Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom for what he termed “fear mongering”. Newsom suggested having a contingency plan in place should Democrats face exclusion from the general election. California’s primary election is two weeks away. The state’s jungle primary system allows the top two vote-getters, regardless of party, to advance. There’s anxiety among both Democrats and Republicans about potential exclusion from the general election.
Newsom highlighted his concern last Thursday during a news conference. He mentioned having a “break the glass scenario” to prevent Democrats from being sidelined. “There are many who understand the implications if Democrats are excluded, and we’ll do everything to prevent that,” Newsom stated.
Steve Hilton argued that Newsom’s remarks intended to divide Republican voters between himself and fellow Republican candidate Chad Bianco. Hilton claimed, “He’s not attempting to prevent a ‘top two Republican’ outcome as that’s not feasible.” According to Hilton, Bianco trails significantly in polls and fundraising, making it impossible for him to secure a top-two spot.
Newsom’s ideal scenario, Hilton contended, involves two Democrats competing. This would redirect attention away from Newsom’s record as he contemplates a 2028 presidential bid. Hilton’s statement emphasized, “Newsom and Democrats are fearmongering over a Republican matchup to encourage a split in Republican votes, ensuring a Democrat-dominated top two.”
In a video posted on X, Hilton urged opponent Bianco to withdraw to guarantee Republican representation on the ballot. Political analysts acknowledge fears among both parties about exclusion due to the jungle primary, employed since a 2010 voter-approved referendum.
Former Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, a close Democratic contender, participates actively. Ballot Access News owner Richard Winger emphasized the tension, noting, “This is the first gubernatorial election without a clear winner.” Meanwhile, former Democratic state Senator Dario Frommer cited instances where party exclusion occurred under the top-two system, reflecting genuine initial Democratic concerns over Hilton and Bianco leading.
Frommer speculated current polling suggests Hilton, Becerra, and Democratic candidate Tom Steyer as potential top vote-getters. However, voter turnout remains lower than expected, intensifying Democratic concerns about ballot submission timing.
In response, Democratic strategist Steven Maviglio initiated a campaign to remove the jungle primary system, potentially appearing on the 2028 ballot. “Should two Republicans or Democrats dominate the ballot, voter dissatisfaction will underscore the failed experiment of this system,” Maviglio asserted.
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