What is the story about?
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — As the primary election approaches on June 2, California Democrats are grappling with their choices in a crowded gubernatorial
race, having started voting in early May. The campaign has unfolded chaotically, with no clear frontrunner emerging among approximately 60 candidates, which includes six prominent Democrats and two notable Republicans, leading to a slower ballot return rate among voters.
Voter Sentiment Amidst Uncertainty
Many Democrats express disappointment in the current field of candidates. Colin Culver, a 21-year-old from San Diego, remarked, “I’m kind of pinching my nose and voting this go-around rather than being excited,” after choosing to support billionaire Tom Steyer, who has shifted from finance to climate activism.The party's top-two primary system has left Democrats particularly uneasy, as they worry that the two leading Republicans, Sheriff Chad Bianco and commentator Steve Hilton, might advance past the primary, potentially sidelining Democratic candidates. Although concerns grew when former Rep. Eric Swalwell exited the race amid allegations of sexual assault, the situation has since stabilized for Democrats.
Delayed Ballot Returns
According to Paul Mitchell, a Democratic strategist, even traditional high-turnout groups among Democrats have been slow to submit their ballots. He noted, “My joke is: Call your Democratic parents and tell them to turn in their ballot,” reflecting a cautious approach among voters amid the unpredictable race.As of Wednesday, approximately 10% of California's 23 million registered voters had cast their ballots, a stark contrast to previous elections where Democrats tended to vote early. This includes 15% of Republicans, 10% of Democrats, and 7% of voters registered with no party affiliation.
Candidates Under Consideration
Among the leading Democratic candidates are former Attorney General Xavier Becerra and Tom Steyer. A mid-May poll from the Public Policy Institute of California indicated that both Becerra and Hilton garnered support from around 20% of likely primary voters, while Steyer, Bianco, and former Congresswoman Katie Porter received between 10% and 15% each.Support for Becerra has notably increased since March when he only had 5% support, largely due to Swalwell's withdrawal from the race. Some voters, however, are making decisions based on personal convictions rather than polling data.
Diverse Voter Perspectives
Mary O’Neal from San Francisco expressed her preference for former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, citing his past leadership. Conversely, recent UC Berkeley graduate Alexa Duran is leaning toward Becerra despite concerns about his inaction regarding a police-related fatality.Amber Larson, a judicial analyst from Chico, is drawn to socialist candidate Ramsey Robinson but feels voting for him would be a waste given his low chances. She ultimately leans toward Steyer due to his energy plans and position as a leading candidate.
