Former San Diego GOP Chair Criticizes Local Republican Party

Corey Gustafson says the party is 'not doing very well' and blames Assembly member Carl DeMaio's influence

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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In a scathing interview, former chair of the San Diego Republican Party Corey Gustafson criticizes the local GOP, saying it is "not doing very well" and blaming Assembly member Carl DeMaio's influence and spending through his organization Reform California. Gustafson accuses DeMaio of cannibalizing the party, spending millions against fellow Republicans in primaries, and even donating to progressive causes, rather than focusing on winning elections.

Why it matters

The discord within the San Diego Republican Party could hinder the party's efforts to make gains in the 2026 midterm elections, especially in key congressional districts. The infighting and lack of a cohesive message may make it difficult for Republicans to present a viable alternative to the Democratic dominance in San Diego politics.

The details

Gustafson, who served as chair of the San Diego Republican Party, says the party has fallen behind and lost its majority on the San Diego County Board of Supervisors and Assembly seats due to DeMaio's influence. He accuses DeMaio of spending $25 million through Reform California since 2017, much of which has gone towards attacking fellow Republicans in primaries rather than winning general elections. Gustafson cites examples of DeMaio endorsing candidates who later faced ethics issues and recalls.

  • Gustafson was chair of the San Diego Republican Party, but was "quickly forced out" after a 6-month tenure.
  • Since 2017, DeMaio has raised $25 million through Reform California.

The players

Corey Gustafson

Former chair of the San Diego Republican Party who is criticizing the local party's direction and DeMaio's influence.

Carl DeMaio

Assembly member and founder of the organization Reform California, which Gustafson accuses of cannibalizing the Republican Party in San Diego through millions in spending against fellow Republicans.

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What they’re saying

“It's not doing very well. And we have been behind in San Diego for a long time now. And we don't have a credible pathway back to being the majority party.”

— Corey Gustafson, Former San Diego Republican Party Chair (nbcsandiego.com)

“As long as Carl DeMaio is cannibalizing the Republican Party of San Diego County and Republican candidates across San Diego County since 2017, Reform California, Carl DeMaio, has raised $25 million, $25 million and what? Where has that money gone?”

— Corey Gustafson, Former San Diego Republican Party Chair (nbcsandiego.com)

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.