Dem Party urges low-viability governor candidates to drop out – NBC Los Angeles

With the crowded field of Democratic gubernatorial candidates who want to succeed Governor Gavin Newsom in November, the Democratic Party is trying to prevent the worst possible scenario: None of the Democratic candidates actually making it to the November run-off.

As recent polls also show Republican candidates have more support from likely voters than most Democrats, the California Democratic Party has taken an unprecedented step by telling candidates without “viability” to drop out. 

The problem is most of the Democratic candidates, aside from Katie Porter, Eric Swalwell and maybe Tom Steyer, do not appear to have a viable path. 

Poll after poll, Republican hopefuls, Steve Hilton and Chad Bianco, have more support from likely voters than long-time public servants, including former Health Secretary Xavier Becerra, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. 

The California Democratic Party is getting nervous about the polling results, it seems, as its chair Rusty Hicks released an open letter, pleading with the candidates to assess whether they really have a chance.

“The likelihood of two Republicans effectively ‘locking out’ California Democrats from the contest for Governor in the General Election is relatively low. However, while it is implausible, it is not impossible and I know we are collectively committed to taking the steps required to avoid that possibility,” Hicks said. “Therefore, with the filing deadline approaching this Friday, March 6th, and the Primary Election quickly following, it is imperative that every candidate honestly assess the viability of their candidacy and campaign.”  

The party also urged the candidates, if they insist on filing to place their name on the ballot for the primary election, they should be prepared to suspend their campaign and endorse another candidate by April 15. 

It is not clear whether the candidates would respond to the plea from the California Democratic Party. During the California LGBTQ+ gubernatorial forum, hosted by NBC Los Angeles and LGBT Center Monday, seven participating candidates – all Democrats – were asked whom they would endorse for governor other than themselves. Most of them declined to endorse.

Villaraigosa said they would pick former California State Controller Betty Yee and State Superintendent Tony Thurmond. Both have not gained traction in the race so far.

Betty Yee herself said she would endorse Villaraigosa and Tom Steyer, who has more support than herself in the polls. Steyer expressed his respect for Yee, whom he said he “very, very, very rarely” disagrees with.

Given the pressure from the Party, many of the candidates, including Becerra, Villaraigosa, Thurmond and Yee, will have to make the decision soon.

Among the recent polls, the February survey from the Public Policy Institutes of California showed Hilton was in first place with 14% of likely voters saying they would vote for the conservative commentator. Second place was former Congresswoman Katie Porter at 13%, followed by Riverside County Sheriff Bianco at 12%. 

Rep. Eric Swalwell was in fourth place with 11%, and billionaire entrepreneur Tom Steyer trailed the Bay Area congressman with 10%.

All remaining candidates – Becerra, Villaraigosa, Tony Thurman, Betty Yee, Matt Mahan, Ian Calderon – were lumped into the “other candidates” category, which overall had support from 30% of likely voters. 

“(We) all have a duty to act in a responsible manner with the opportunities and support we have earned. I believe it starts with a candid assessment of the political landscape around you, an honest reflection on your viability to win the race, and the courage to make a tough choice,” Hicks said, ending the open letter. 

In response to Hicks’ letter, San Jose Mayor Mahan, who was the latest person to join the race, released a statement, appearing to dismiss the Party’s suggestion.

“Voters choose the next governor, not political gatekeepers,” Mahan said. “We know that as more Californians hear about Matt’s bold plans to build more housing, fully implement Proposition 36, and make sure that government does better before it asks for more, he will advance in June and be elected Governor in November.”