It wasn’t that bad of a debate last night. But if you’re looking for a clear winner, there wasn’t one. No game changing moment. Two gaffes, both from Democrats. And while no one emerged as a clear winner, the Demoratic field is reshuffling and its look s increasingly like there will be a red vs blue election in November.
Here’s how it looks the morning after:
- Xavier Becerra & Katie Porter
- Got the most attention among Democrats
- Both sharpened contrasts and tried to consolidate the anti-GOP vote
- Becerra confusing Iraq and Iran was a minor gaffe; not a deal breaker.
- Steve Hilton & Chad Bianco
- Stayed on message attacking Democratic leadership
- Didn’t break out, but didn’t implode either
- Stay off X.com for the truth because the pro-Hilton tweets are almost crazy about things he says he’ll do that a governor legally cannot do. Hilton misreads Trump’s lack of support in California thinnking its an asset when its a major liability.
- Bianco will get the non-Trump conservative vote but its not enough to get him into the Top 2.
- Tom Steyer
- Took heavy incoming fire from multiple sides
- When asked to analyze Gov. Newsom’s record, Steyer punted and said he wasn’t paying attention to Gavin. Dude, that’s the job you’re applying for!
What changed and who helped themselves the most:
Katie Porter
She came out the strongest because she was disciplined, landed a few clear hits, and looked competent. Made it clear, she’s not a millionaire. Addressed the video where she was rude to a staffer by explaining that staffer stayed with her for four more years. Stories about former staffers coming forward to promote her help.
Xavier Becerra
Despite the Iraq/Iran mix-up, showed his experience with large organizations and major budgets. If he stays in the top tier, he’ll win.
Steve Hilton
I’m tired about his “they sky is falling” routine. I kept waiting for a Democrat to ask him how he replaces revenue on his proposals for no state income tax for those who make under $100,000 or $3.00 a gallon gas if he’s supposed to be a “free market conservative.” Classic short man syndrome who doesn’t understand a Trump endorsement hurts him instead of helps him.
Chad Bianco
He’ll only appeal to a no-Trump conservative base, but unlikely to go past it. I don’t see him maknig the runoff.
Tom Steyer
No surprise that the true billionaire took the most fire from both sides. Disappointed with his performance but he has the money for media buys no one else has and can buy the time he needs to add support.
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