NewsNY Post PoliticsMay 3, 2026United States
California Democratic Party Chair Calls for Changes to State Primary System
California Democratic Party Chair Rusty Hicks is advocating for a revision or repeal of the state's 'top-two' primary system. He suggests that the current structure, which allows candidates from any party to advance to the general election, may need to be replaced by a new system as early as the end of this year.
Read the full story at NY Post PoliticsWhy It Matters
A change to the primary system would alter how candidates qualify for the ballot, potentially impacting which political parties are represented in the final race for governor.
Key Facts
- Rusty Hicks, Chair of the California Democratic Party, is calling for a revision or repeal of the state's current 'top-two' primary system.
- The current system allows the top two candidates, regardless of party, to advance to the general election.
- Hicks suggests a new structure could be proposed to voters by the end of the year via the state legislature or a ballot measure.
- The current 'jungle primary' system was approved by voters in 2010.
- Prior to 2012, California used a closed primary system where parties chose their own candidates separately.
- Hicks has previously requested that lower-polling Democratic candidates drop out to prevent vote splitting.
- Concerns exist that a crowded Democratic field could lead to two Republican candidates advancing to the general election.
Who's Mentioned
personChad Bianco“Riverside County Sheriff and candidate for Governor.”personJohn Cox“Republican candidate in the 2018 gubernatorial race.”personSteve Hilton“Republican political commentator and candidate for Governor.”personArnold Schwarzenegger“Former Governor of California who supported the 2010 electoral reform.”personGavin Newsom“Governor of California whose 2018 campaign strategy is cited as an example of pr”personRusty Hicks“Chair of the California Democratic Party advocating for primary system reform.”