California Primary Tests Top-Two System in Crowded Governor’s Race
California voters are choosing the top two candidates for governor in a primary that could shape the state’s fall campaign and national political map.
SACRAMENTO | California voters are choosing finalists in a crowded governor’s race that is testing the state’s top-two primary system and drawing national attention from both parties.
Reuters reported that 61 candidates are running for governor under California’s system, where all candidates appear on the same ballot and the top two advance regardless of party. Governor Gavin Newsom is term-limited, making the race the state’s first open contest for the office in years.
The Public Policy Institute of California’s late-May survey showed Democrat Xavier Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton leading the field, with Tom Steyer, Chad Bianco and Katie Porter among other major candidates. Polls are not results, but they frame the strategic concern for both parties.
The system can produce unusual outcomes when a large field splits the vote. Democrats worry about fragmentation, Republicans see a chance to consolidate behind a leading candidate, and voters are asked to sort through a ballot that includes familiar names and long-shot contenders.
The race also carries congressional implications because California’s map and turnout can affect the national fight for House control. That makes the primary more than a state succession contest.
Additional Reporting By: Reuters; Associated Press; Public Policy Institute of California; California Secretary of State public election materials; CGN News Staff
What this means
California’s top-two system rewards consolidation and name recognition. The results will show whether the state’s crowded Democratic field changes the shape of the November race.