Executive Summary
- California Democrats gathered at the Moscone Center to strategize for the 2026 midterm elections.
- Delegates expressed frustration over the 2024 presidential loss to President Trump and the party’s previous strategy.
- A crowded field of ten gubernatorial candidates raises concerns about the “Top Two” primary system potentially favoring Republicans.
- Younger activists emphasized a need for the party to address a generational disconnect to mobilize voters.
SAN FRANCISCO — The California Democratic Party held its state convention at the Moscone Center over the weekend, marking a significant gathering of delegates seeking to define the party’s future direction ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. While no formal endorsement for governor was expected during the event, the convention served as a critical forum for strategizing following the party’s loss in the 2024 presidential election.
Delegates and activists engaged in spirited discussions both inside the convention hall and on the surrounding sidewalks. Conversations ranged from specific policy issues such as immigration enforcement and foreign policy to broader concerns regarding the party’s leadership strategy. According to attendees, the atmosphere reflected a constituency gearing up for a political battle while grappling with internal dissent. Judy Rice, an Orange County delegate, noted the urgency of the moment, stating, “We have to figure out what’s better for the future. This is a scary time, but we can affect it.”
A significant portion of the discourse centered on the aftermath of the 2024 election, where President Donald Trump secured reelection. Some delegates expressed frustration with the Democratic establishment’s decision-making processes during that cycle. Alan Lai, a delegate from Riverside who entered party politics following President Trump’s victory, emphasized that many younger voters hold the party accountable for retaining former President Joe Biden as the candidate for an extended period. “It’s like you didn’t listen to us and you lost,” Lai said. “In their minds, that is validating the fact that you’re not listening to them.”
The sentiment of generational disconnect was echoed by members of Grassroots Democrats HQ, an activist group advocating for a new strategic direction. Jaidyn Mckinnie, a member of the group, highlighted the motivating factor of the current political landscape under President Trump, while Luke Susswood suggested that younger voters are prioritizing relatability and tangible results over strict party loyalty. This demographic shift presents a challenge for party officials currently working to regain a majority in Congress and retain the governor’s mansion.
The gubernatorial race remains a primary focus, with ten candidates currently vying for the position. On Saturday, candidates were allotted four minutes each to address the convention. Political analysts note that the crowded Democratic field poses a strategic risk under California’s “Top Two” primary system. Current polling indicates that two Republican candidates are outperforming individual Democrats, raising the possibility that two Republicans could advance to the general election if the Democratic vote remains fractured. However, party insiders expect the field to consolidate before the primary.
Strategic Implications for 2026
The convergence of delegates in San Francisco underscores a critical pivot point for the California Democratic Party as it seeks to recalibrate following the 2024 presidential defeat. With a crowded gubernatorial field, the party faces a tangible mathematical risk under California’s “Top Two” primary system, where a fractured Democratic vote could potentially allow two Republican candidates to advance to the general election, locking Democrats out of the race entirely. The vocal dissatisfaction among younger delegates suggests that party leadership must bridge a significant generational divide and address grievances regarding candidate selection strategy to ensure mobilized support for the upcoming midterm cycle.
