Calif. Dems pressure crowded governor field to drop out or risk GOP win

California's Democratic Party urged candidates without a viable path to the general election to suspend their campaigns, but nine Democrats remain in a crowded gubernatorial field, fueling fears that two Republicans could reach November. Party chair Rusty Hicks warned of a possible GOP surge and urged strategic withdrawals, a stance criticized by candidates. Polls divide the race into a competitive core and trailing candidates, the party did not endorse anyone at its convention, and Newsom acknowledged concerns.