California, typically a Democratic stronghold, may unexpectedly influence the 2024 Republican presidential nomination. A recent alteration in the state’s GOP rules could significantly bolster the chances of former President Donald Trump.
What Happened: The rule change presents an opportunity for Trump to secure all 169 of California’s delegates on Super Tuesday, slated for March 5. This could be a significant boon for his campaign, considering his advantageous position in numerous state and national polls, reported NBC Bay Area on Monday.
Charles Moran, a GOP fundraiser and Trump delegate in 2016 and 2020, suggested that a Trump victory in California could mean he “takes the nomination on Super Tuesday.”
While the race’s dynamics could change prior to the Iowa caucuses, which marks the official start of the GOP nomination process in less than four months, Trump is keeping a close eye on California. Notably, he is set to attend the state’s GOP convention on Friday, despite missing the second presidential debate earlier this week.
The new rule mandates that if a Republican presidential candidate wins more than 50% of the primary vote, they receive all 169 delegates. If no candidate reaches this mark, delegates are distributed proportionally.
The late July rule change was initially designed to attract GOP presidential candidates to California and increase the state’s influence in the 2024 GOP nomination process. However, critics argue that it has squashed competition due to the high cost of advertising in the vast state.
Jon Fleishman, a conservative activist and former state GOP executive director, said the rule change has “effectively terminated the Republican primary in California.” Meanwhile, according to Fleishman, the state party, heavily influenced by House Speaker and Trump loyalist Kevin McCarthy, has “shifted everything to help Donald Trump.”
Why It Matters: Trump’s attention to California comes amid his decision to skip a third consecutive GOP debate, which is to be held in the state, despite a strong lead in the polls reported by Benzinga.
This strategy coincides with the California GOP’s rule change that may favor Trump. At the same time, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, another GOP presidential nomination contender, has agreed to a televised debate with California Governor Gavin Newsom in late November, as mentioned by Benzinga.
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