Democrats' fear rising that too many candidates in governor's race could lead to a Republican victory

"California Democrats are prepared to do what's required,"

"We are ready and willing and able to do what's required ... to ensure we have a strong candidate coming out of the primary to do what's required in November."

"collective commitment to ensuring we do not see a Republican elected [for governor]"

California Democrats fear that a crowded field of Democratic gubernatorial candidates could split the vote in the jungle primary and allow two Republicans to advance to the general election. Nine prominent Democrats are running to replace the termed-out governor, while two top Republican contenders also compete, creating a risk that Republicans could finish as the top two vote-getters. The party is urging lower-polling Democrats to withdraw to avoid splitting the electorate and preserve Democratic control of statewide offices. Running a viable statewide campaign requires enormous fundraising to reach 23.1 million registered voters and expensive media markets, prompting a push for a single strong Democratic nominee.

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