News Summary
California Governor Gavin Newsom will not attend the state’s Democratic Party’s spring convention due to scheduling conflicts. Instead, he will participate in meetings in Oregon that focus on defending Democratic values and countering former President Trump’s policies. His absence, along with concerns about his recent actions perceived as a betrayal by voters, highlights a growing disconnect between the governor and party members. The convention will feature prominent speakers and discussions on improving electoral competitiveness as the party prepares for upcoming elections.
Anaheim
California Governor Gavin Newsom will skip the California Democratic Party’s spring convention this weekend due to scheduling conflicts. Instead, he will attend Democratic Governors Association meetings in Portland, Oregon, where the focus will be on defending Democratic values and opposing former President Trump’s tariff regime and healthcare policies.
The California Democratic convention is scheduled to run from Friday through Sunday at a convention center just a block from Disneyland. This event is expected to attract approximately 4,000 delegates, activists, donors, and party leaders, highlighting the importance of grassroots engagement within the party.
Newsom’s absence from this convention follows his decision not to attend the last statewide Democratic convention held in Sacramento in 2023. This trend is raising concerns among California Democrats regarding their relationship with the governor, especially in light of his recent controversial comments on transgender athletes and funding cuts to organizations like Planned Parenthood.
A recent poll indicates that 43% of California voters perceive Newsom’s recent actions as a betrayal of his own values or as insincere, suggesting an increasing disconnect between the governor’s actions and the expectations of his base. This growing dissent within the party comes as Newsom prepares to conclude his gubernatorial tenure in early 2027, with many anticipating his candidacy for president in the 2028 election cycle.
During the convention, state party chair Rusty Hicks is seeking reelection amid discussions on the need for the party to adapt its strategies for improved electoral competitiveness, especially following losses in legislative seats and declines in voter turnout among key demographics in the previous election cycle. The convention features a roster of prominent speakers, including Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and New Jersey Senator Cory Booker.
In addition to speeches, the convention will include trainings focused on the upcoming midterm elections, caucus meetings, and diverse social events such as a karaoke night and a “Rage for Democracy” party. While former Vice President Kamala Harris will also be absent from the convention, she is expected to send a video greeting. Harris is speculated to be contemplating a run for governor in 2026 while also being considered a potential candidate for the presidency in 2028.
With both Newsom and Harris declining to attend, questions about their political strategies and future plans are circulating among party members. Prominent figures within the California Democratic Party, including Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis and various former state officials, are actively participating and addressing attendees throughout the convention.
Discussions regarding the leadership age within the party are ongoing, with some members expressing the need for older politicians to retire in order to allow fresh talent to emerge. The convention also includes social events aimed at fostering engagement with delegates and activists, such as a fireworks show and ice cream social, facilitating informal interaction among attendees.
As the California Democratic Party continues to navigate its challenges while preparing for the future, these events and the absence of key leaders like Newsom and Harris highlight a pivotal moment as the party seeks to maintain its influence in the upcoming electoral landscape.
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Additional Resources
- Los Angeles Times: Newsom Skips Convention
- New York Times: California Democrats and Aging
- Sacramento Bee: Political Updates
- Wikipedia: California Democratic Party
- Google News: California Democratic Party
Author: Anaheim Staff Writer
Anaheim Staff Writer The Anaheim Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREAnaheim.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Anaheim, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as major conventions at the Anaheim Convention Center, including NAMM and VidCon, exciting games at Angel Stadium and Honda Center, and developments at Disneyland Resort Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce and Visit Anaheim, plus leading businesses in hospitality, entertainment, and innovation that power the local economy As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECostaMesa.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
