top-two primary system

California's top-two primary system faces scrutiny due to a crowded primary for the governor's race. ABC7 Eyewitness News Political Reporter Monica Madden examined whether the system is functioning as intended.

California's top-two primary system, designed to encourage moderate candidates by requiring cross-spectrum appeal, often results in typical partisan general elections with one Democrat and one Republican. Critics argue the system fails to promote ideological diversity, as voters treat it like partisan primaries, and some races see strategic undermining of opponents. Proposals to repeal the system or adopt ranked choice voting are gaining traction.

The California governor's race is too close to call, marking the first time since the state adopted the top-two primary system that such a situation has occurred.

Candidates for California governor and Los Angeles mayor are making final campaign pushes ahead of Tuesday's primary election. Xavier Becerra, Steve Hilton, Tom Steyer, and others compete in a crowded gubernatorial race, while Karen Bass faces challengers in the mayoral contest. The top-two primary system will determine the general election candidates.

California gubernatorial candidates Xavier Becerra, Steve Hilton, Tom Steyer, and others are making final campaign efforts ahead of the June 2 primary. The race includes about 60 candidates under California's top-two primary system, with the top two vote-getters advancing to a general election. Voter turnout is at 13% as of Friday, with polls showing Becerra and Hilton each leading about 20% of likely voters.

California Democrats face a crowded gubernatorial race with over 60 candidates, including six major Democrats and two Republicans, leading to voter indecision and slower-than-usual ballot returns. The top-two primary system and lack of a clear front-runner have heightened anxiety among Democrats, while President Donald Trump's endorsement of Republican Steve Hilton has influenced GOP support.