This week, we’re circling back to something we talked about in early March: the California governor’s race — and specifically, the very unique (and slightly chaotic) jungle primary system we use here.
A lot has changed since our last conversation. And with ballots hitting mailboxes in early May, the timeline is getting tight.
So what’s different now?
When we last talked, the field was wide open. No clear frontrunner. Lots of possibilities.
Now?There’s been a major shake-up — including serious allegations against Eric Swalwell that have effectively taken him out of serious consideration.
Which brings us right back to the core concern we raised before:
👉 If Democratic voters don’t coalesce, we could end up with two Republicans in the general election.
And in a state like California, that’s… ridiculous? appalling? scary?
The reality of the jungle primary
In a traditional primary, you can vote your heart.
In this system?You have to vote strategically.
Because it’s not about picking your favorite candidate in a vacuum — it’s about making sure the right candidates even make it to November.
So we walk through a simple, practical rubric:
* Who meets this moment?
* Who has real governing experience?
* Who understands California?
* And yes — who can actually win?
It’s not always a comfortable way to think about voting.But that is our current reality.
Where we landed
After looking at the field we landed on one candidate who checks the most boxes right now and seems to be picking up momentum (polling will tell for sure):
This candidate brings decades of experience at both the state and federal level, has already taken on a Trump administration as California’s Attorney General and if you don’t know already, we reveal their name in the episode, eventually.
Could this shift as polling evolves? Possibly.And we talk about that too.
What you can do
If you’re in California:
* Do your own research
* Keep an eye on polling as ballots arrive
* Make a deliberate, informed choice
If you’re not:
* Pay attention to your own local races
* Stay engaged where you are
* And remember — systems matter, not just candidates
And yes… we end with joy
Because even in the middle of all this:
* Neighborhood connections are growing
* Home projects are moving forward
* Science is still doing incredible things
And sometimes, that’s enough to keep you going.
🎧 Listen to the full episode for the full breakdown (and a few classic Aaron jokes along the way).
And as always:
* Email us: hello@acouplethinks.com
* Take the survey: survey.acouplethinks.com
We’d love to hear what you’re thinking.
