California Democrats risk splitting the vote in the gubernatorial primary, potentially allowing Republican Steve Hilton to advance. - Moderate candidates Matt Mahan and Katie Porter refuse to drop out, despite low polling.
- Hilton consistently polls in the top two alongside Xavier Becerra or Tom Steyer. - A one-two Democratic finish would have depressed GOP turnout in congressional races.
- Ranked choice voting is proposed as a solution to avoid future vote splitting. The outcome could shape the general election debate, shifting focus from policy to Donald Trump.