The California Democratic Party convened its annual convention over the weekend to begin strategizing for the 2026 elections. Delegates gathered to induct new members and plan for the coming election season, with a focus on bolstering the party’s appeal to a broader voter base. While the event largely avoided direct discussions about the 2028 presidential race, it did touch on the broader question of whether a Californian could win a national election, given the state’s reputation for progressive policies and its perceived stereotype as being ‘crazy people.’
Although former Vice President Kamala Harris and Governor Gavin Newsom have both been considered potential 2028 Democratic presidential contenders, neither appeared at the convention. Harris addressed the gathering via video, while Newsom did not attend. Some delegates expressed doubts about the feasibility of a Californian winning the presidency, citing the state’s unique identity and the challenges of translating its progressive values into a national campaign. Delegate Jane Baulch-Enloe suggested that California Democrats need to work on shifting public perception, arguing that the state’s approach to issues like higher wages and universal healthcare is not inherently ‘crazy’ but simply different from the national norm.
Other attendees emphasized the importance of framing the party’s message around economic issues, with Aref Aziz, a leader of the Asian American Pacific Islander caucus, pointing out that while California and New York have strong GDPs, the high cost of living in these states could undermine their economic appeal. Delegate Melissa Taylor, however, defended California’s progressive policies, arguing that the state represents values central to the Democratic Party, such as labor rights, healthcare access, and LGBTQ equality. Jodi Hicks, president of Planned Parenthood Affiliates of California, added that Harris’ loss in the 2024 election was due to unique factors, including a short campaign timeline, rather than any inherent political weakness. Despite these differing perspectives, the convention highlighted both the challenges and potential of California’s role in shaping the future of the Democratic Party.