Summary
A new poll indicates a close race in California's gubernatorial primary, where the state's electoral system could lead to Democratic candidates being locked out of the general election. California uses a "jungle primary" where the top two vote-getters, regardless of party, move on to the general election.
Key Facts
- California's "jungle primary" system means all candidates from any party are listed on the same primary ballot.
- The two candidates with the most votes in the primary advance to the general election.
- Currently, two prominent Republican candidates and several Democratic candidates are in the race.
- Steve Hilton, a Republican, leads the poll with 14% support.
- Former Democratic Representative Katie Porter follows Hilton with 13%, and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco has 12%.
- Democrats risk splitting their votes among several candidates, potentially allowing two Republicans to advance.
- The poll surveyed 1,657 California adults, with a margin of error of ±3.1 percentage points.
- Changes, such as undecided voters making decisions, could still affect election outcomes.
