California Governor Race: Democrats' Worst Fear

It's March 24th, from Hollywood to your headphones.

This is Entertainment and Celebrity News today, powered by AI.

I'm Cory with the story.

California's governor race is heating up with a twist that has Democrats on edge.

Governor Gavin Newsom cannot seek a third term, leaving an open seat in the nation's

most popular state.

The June 2nd primary uses a top two system, where the leading finishers advance to November

regardless of party.

Right now, polls show two Republicans neck-and-neck with top Democrats, raising fears that both

general election spots could go to the GOP.

Adding to the tension, leading Republican candidates include former Fox News host Steve

Hilton and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco.

On the Democratic side, U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell, former Representative Katie

Porter and billionaire Tom Steyer are in the mix with San.

Jose Mayor Matt Mahan also polling close.

Democrats are sounding alarms over the possibility of no party member in the fall match-up.

A rare scenario in a state that is not back to Republican.

President since 1988, party chair Rusty Hicks urged lesser-known candidates to drop out.

Calling a two-republican finale, unlikely, but possible.

Strategists admit no one has pulled ahead yet.

Tonight's debate at 5 p.m., Pacific time gives these six contenders a big stage to shake

things up.

Swalwell brings national name recognition from his presidential run and impeachment role,

while Porter gained fame-grilling executives in Congress.

Steyer is self-funding heavily, and Mahan positions himself as a Newsom critic.

With California's $4 trillion economy on the line, the outcome could shape national politics

on issues like the environment and worker.

This race stays one to watch as primary day nears.