Overview
- Trump’s endorsement of Steve Hilton is pushing GOP support toward him, though the state Republican chair says a two-Republican finish remains possible.
- California uses a top-two primary that sends the two highest vote-getters of any party to November, creating a real chance that one party can take both slots.
- Recent March polling showed Republicans Steve Hilton and Chad Bianco leading with about 17% and 16%, with top Democrats like Eric Swalwell and Katie Porter in the low teens.
- State Democratic leaders have urged lower-polling candidates to exit to reduce vote-splitting, yet the large field remains intact without a clear favorite.
- USC canceled a planned debate after its criteria excluded candidates of color, and Xavier Becerra accused the university of “rigging” the lineup based on its selection formula.