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NPR Topics: News1 min read
Why Democrats are panicking about losing California
TL;DR
Democrats are expressing concern over potential losses in California, a key state for their political power. This panic signals significant shifts in voter sentiment and electoral dynamics.
Key points
- Democrats are concerned about losing California
- California is a key state for Democratic power
- Shifts in voter sentiment are influencing electoral dynamics
Episode details
News,·15 May 2026,·40 mins
Why Democrats are panicking about losing California
Available for over a year
It’s the world’s fourth largest economy, with over 40 million people and home to some of the world’s most powerful tech companies. So why aren’t the Democratic party’s biggest names queuing up for a chance to run California? Voting has started in a primary to decide who will run to replace Governor Gavin Newsom. Democrats have been scrambling after its frontrunner, Rep Eric Swalwell dropped out following allegations of sexual misconduct, and without a blockbuster candidate such as Kamala Harris, Democrat voters have been left navigating a crowded, unsettled field of candidates. In this episode, Sarah, Anthony and Justin discuss why California is problematic to govern and assess the risk for Democrats possibly losing the state. Also, who is the British-born Republican endorsed by Trump and does he have a real chance of making it to the November election? We also hear from Democrat Californian royalty, Christine Pelosi, long time Democrat strategist who is now running as a Californian State Senate candidate, and of course daughter to Nancy Pelosi, former speaker of the House of Representatives. HOSTS: • Sarah Smith, North America Editor • Justin Webb, Radio 4 presenter • Anthony Zurcher, North America Correspondent GET IN TOUCH: • Join our online community: https://discord.gg/qSrxqNcmRB • Send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 330 123 9480 • Email Americast@bbc.co.uk • Or use #Americast This episode was made by George Dabby with Tom Gillett, Alix Pickles and Grace Reeve. The technical producer was Jonny Hall. The series producer is Purvee Pattni. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. If you want to be notified every time we publish a new episode, please subscribe to us on BBC Sounds by hitting the subscribe button on the app. You can now listen to Americast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Americast”. It works on most smart speakers. US Election Unspun: Sign up for Anthony’s BBC newsletter: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-68093155 Americast is part of the BBC News Podcasts family of podcasts. The team that makes Americast also makes lots of other podcasts, including Newscast. If you enjoy Americast (and if you're reading this then you hopefully do), then we think that you will enjoy some of our other pods too. See links below. Newscast: Radical: The Global Story:
Q&A
What are the reasons behind Democrats' panic in California?
Democrats are worried about changing voter sentiments and potential electoral losses in a state crucial for their political strength.
How could losing California impact the Democratic Party?
Losing California could significantly weaken the Democratic Party's influence and electoral chances in national elections.
What recent trends are affecting Democratic support in California?
Recent trends indicate shifts in voter demographics and preferences that could threaten Democratic dominance in California.
