Written by T. Logan Dayne
Voting has ended in the primaries for the blue stronghold that is California with a few small surprises. The recall of the radical San Francisco District Attorney Chesa Boudin gave a warning against policies that were far too lax on crime. Crime and homelessness along with gas and food prices are at the forefront of issues and the recall is testament to that. The progressive prosecutor that originally ran on promises for increased accountability began shifting to lower incarcerations and quick bail. Rising crime, which included property crime and anti-Asian hate crimes, Boudin quickly lost public trust.
Another turn is the rise of Republican Constitutional Attorney Mark Meuser who will be running against the U.S. Senator Alex Padilla. Padilla had not been elected but rather appointed by Newsom after Kamala Harris was chosen for Vice President. This marks the first time in a decade that California will have a Republican senate candidate come voting in November. Mark Meuser will be on the general and special election ballot.
Republican Lanhee Chen also advanced to the general election for State Controller. Chen ran on a platform of accountability and transparency and is looking at facing off with one of four Democratic candidates in November. This is an office a Republican has not won since 2006. On the subject, Chen stated, “To win in November will require an effort that hasn’t been seen in our state for a long time.”
Newsom also advances to the general after surviving the recall attempt. Newsom received 56% of the vote and will be running against Brian Dahle. Dahle is running on a platform of public safety, lowering taxes, and reducing homelessness while vowing to be cooperative with his Democratic colleagues. Dahle has served on the California State Senate for the 1st district and also served as Minority Leader of the California State Assembly.
Photo Cred: Robert Gourley / Los Angeles Times
