The California gubernatorial primary system, which allows all candidates from both major parties to enter a single primary, could result in voters choosing between two Republicans to replace Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom. This could occur if the two leading Republicans finish one-two in the June primary and advance to the general election. Most California Democrats are confident that one candidate will secure enough support to avoid this outcome. However, this uncertainty has led to increased pressure from party leaders and renewed scrutiny of the top-two system. So far, state party chair Rusty Hicks has called for low-polling candidates to drop out, but many believe that elevating one of the party’s contenders would require endorsements from some combination of party leaders including Newsom, Sen. Alex Padilla and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.