Joe Mathews' column discusses how the egos of Democratic candidates Katie Porter and Steve Mahan are inadvertently helping Republican John Hilton in the California governor's race. - The race includes 16 candidates, with five having significant governing experience.
- Mathews declines to run for lieutenant governor, citing increased political dangers. - The column notes the normalization of violence and persecution in politics.
- Mathews highlights the importance of the lieutenant governor role in the current climate.