California primary unresolved as voters choose midterm candidates – US politics live

California's gubernatorial primary remains undecided, with leading candidates vying for voter support. In Los Angeles mayoral race, Karen Bass secured a lead but will face a general election in November. Democrats have secured nominations in key races, including Josh Turek for Iowa's US Senate seat and Adam Hamawy for New Jersey's 12th congressional district. Deb Haaland won the Democratic nomination for governor in New Mexico, potentially becoming the first Native American woman governor. Christina Bohannan will challenge an incumbent Republican in Iowa's 1st congressional district, while Zach Lahn won the Republican nomination for Iowa governor. Rebecca Benett will challenge an incumbent Republican in New Jersey's 7th congressional district.

California is holding its primary elections on June 2nd, with a notable gubernatorial race featuring 61 candidates. The state's "jungle primary" system, where the top two vote-getters advance regardless of party, could allow Republicans to potentially succeed outgoing Democrat Gavin Newsom due to divided Democratic support. Beyond the governorship, numerous statewide offices and key House of Representatives seats are on the ballot. The primaries are crucial for setting up November's midterm elections, particularly as California uses a new congressional map, redrawn to favor Democrats. A significant House race to watch is for San Francisco's 11th district, following Nancy Pelosi's retirement.

California's consequential gubernatorial primary is approaching, with voters seeking a replacement for Governor Gavin Newsom. The state utilizes a "jungle primary" system where the top two finishers advance to the general election regardless of party. Recent polls indicate Democrat Xavier Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton are leading, each with about 20% support, followed by Democrat Tom Steyer. Other notable candidates include Democrats Katie Porter and Matt Mahan, Democrat Antonio Villaraigosa, and Republican Chad Bianco. The race has seen significant spending, particularly from Tom Steyer, and the withdrawal of Eric Swalwell after allegations of sexual assault.

The chair of the California Democratic Party, Rusty Hicks, is advocating for a change to the state's "open primary" system. He argues that the current "free-for-all" format, where the top two vote-getters advance regardless of party, risks allowing a Republican to win the governorship despite Democrats' significant registration advantage. Hicks fears a scenario where a crowded Democratic field splits the vote, enabling two Republicans to secure the top two spots. He believes this system is prone to quirky outcomes and wants a new structure considered for voters as early as this November. The concern stems from the potential for a Republican to win a statewide office in California, a state considered a Democratic stronghold.

Maine Governor Janet Mills has withdrawn from the US Senate race just weeks before the Democratic primary. Mills cited a lack of financial resources as the reason for her decision, despite having the drive and experience for the campaign. She was considered a strong Democratic recruit aiming to unseat Republican Senator Susan Collins. However, Mills faced challenges in the primary against opponent Graham Platner, whose past controversies did not significantly hinder his popularity. Her withdrawal highlights an internal party debate on strategies to win competitive Senate seats and regain power in Washington.