Rusty Hicks, the chair of the California Democratic Party, is calling for a reevaluation of the state's open primary system, which allows voters to choose any candidate regardless of party affiliation. He asserts that this system has failed to deliver its intended benefits and risks a scenario where two Republicans could advance in the upcoming gubernatorial primary, potentially jeopardizing the Democratic hold on the governor's mansion. Hicks expressed concerns that the crowded field of Democratic candidates could split the vote, allowing Republicans to capitalize on the situation. He hopes to propose a new voting structure to voters as early as November, emphasizing the urgency of the situation given the political stakes. Despite California's strong Democratic registration advantage and legislative supermajorities, the open primary has previously led to unexpected outcomes, with Republicans advancing in districts where Democrats should dominate. Critics argue that the system, originally designed to promote moderation and competitiveness, has instead entrenched one-party dominance. Hicks's call for change reflects broader concerns within the party about maintaining its electoral strength in a state seen as a bastion against Republican policies.