Rick Caruso Opts Out of CA Governor Race; "None of the Above" Leads Democrats in New Poll

Rick Caruso's Decision

• 💡 Rick Caruso has announced he will not be running for California Governor or Los Angeles Mayor, opting out of the statewide race.
• 📌 Caruso expressed appreciation for those who encouraged him to run and stated he will remain devoted to service from a "different seat."
• 🎯 Sources indicated Caruso was leaning towards a gubernatorial run rather than a mayoral one.

Democratic Candidates Opting Out

• 🚀 Attorney General Rob Bonta has decided to stay in his current role, citing ongoing work and lawsuits against the Trump administration.
• ⚠️ Other prominent Democrats, including Kamala Harris and Alex Padilla, have also opted out of running for Governor.
• 📉 The reasons cited for these decisions include California's significant budget deficit, the homelessness crisis, and the general affordability issues facing the state.

New Challenger for AG

• 🔍 Michael Gates, former City Attorney of Huntington Beach, has entered the race for Attorney General, presenting himself as a challenger to Rob Bonta.
• 📊 Historically, Republicans face an uphill battle in statewide California races, with the last Republican Attorney General serving in 1994.

Gavin Newsom's Podcast Appearance

• 🎙️ Governor Gavin Newsom appeared on conservative commentator Ben Shapiro's podcast, discussing issues that divide Democrats and Republicans.
• 🗣️ Newsom and Shapiro debated topics including affordability, the tax structure, crime rates, immigration, and gender identity.
• ✈️ Shapiro noted that his family, including his wife's family, has moved out of California due to affordability concerns.

New Polling for Governor Race

• 📊 A new poll from the Independent Voter Project shows "None of the Above" leading ahead of any declared Democrat in the race for Governor.
• 📈 Republican candidates Chad Bianco and Steve Hilton are also polling strongly, indicating a potential challenge to Democratic candidates.
• 💰 With primaries in June, the field of Democratic candidates is crowded, and many have not yet emerged as strong contenders.