Story perspectives

Democratic Chair Urges Candidates to Withdraw Amid Split Vote Fears

3/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

Rusty Hicks, the California Democratic Party chair, urged candidates to withdraw.
Democrats outnumber Republicans nearly 2-to-1, raising fears that a split vote could let two Republicans advance to November.
The primary election is set for June.
Eric Swalwell and Tom Steyer broadly agree on housing policy, with Swalwell earning 24% support at the state convention and Steyer investing $47.4 million in his campaign.
Some candidates argue Hicks' request disproportionately affects candidates of color.

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Story summary

Rusty Hicks, the California Democratic Party chair, urged candidates to withdraw.
Democrats outnumber Republicans nearly 2-to-1, raising fears that a split vote could let two Republicans advance to November.
The primary election is set for June.
Eric Swalwell and Tom Steyer broadly agree on housing policy, with Swalwell earning 24% support at the state convention and Steyer investing $47.4 million in his campaign.
Some candidates argue Hicks' request disproportionately affects candidates of color.