Republicans Take Top Two Spots in Calif. Governor Polls

Panicking Dems Turn on Each Other as Long-Shot Candidates Threaten to Lock Them Out

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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According to the latest polls, two Republican candidates are leading the field in the California gubernatorial race, causing panic among state Democratic Party officials. The state's open primary system allows the top two finishers, regardless of party, to advance to the general election, raising the possibility that two Republicans could effectively 'lock out' Democrats from the contest. In response, the state Democratic Party chair has urged the weaker Democratic candidates to withdraw, but this has sparked infighting among the Democrats, with accusations of race-based discrimination.

Why it matters

This story highlights the potential for unexpected outcomes in California's open primary system, where the traditional party dynamics could be upended. It also sheds light on the internal tensions within the Democratic Party as they grapple with the possibility of losing a key gubernatorial race in a heavily Democratic state.

The details

The latest RealClearPolling aggregate shows that the two leading candidates are Republicans: Fox News contributor Steve Hilton with 15% support and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco with 14.3% support. The top Democratic candidates, including Rep. Eric Swalwell, former Rep. Katie Porter, and billionaire Tom Steyer, are trailing behind. In response, the California Democratic Party chair, Rusty Hicks, has published an open letter urging the weaker Democratic candidates to withdraw from the race to avoid the 'unthinkable' scenario of two Republicans advancing to the general election.

  • The filing deadline for the California gubernatorial primary is this Friday, March 6th.
  • The primary election is quickly following the filing deadline.

The players

Rusty Hicks

The chair of the California Democratic Party.

Steve Hilton

A Fox News contributor and one of the leading Republican candidates in the California gubernatorial race.

Chad Bianco

The sheriff of Riverside County and one of the leading Republican candidates in the California gubernatorial race.

Eric Swalwell

A Democratic congressman from California who is running for governor.

Katie Porter

A former Democratic congresswoman from California who is running for governor.

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What they’re saying

“Despite the ongoing chatter, 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.”

— Rusty Hicks, Chair, California Democratic Party (The New York Times)

“Essentially telling every candidate of color to withdraw.”

— Tony Thurmond, California State Superintendent of Public Instruction (The New York Times)

“Ordering every candidate of color to drop out for your three establishment favorites: Swalwell, Porter, and Steyer — all white.”

— Corrin Rankin, Chairwoman, California Republican Party (The Western Journal)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.