In this episode of the So, Does It Matter? One-On-One Podcast, Jon sits down with John Park, Vice Chairman of the California Republican Party, for a wide-ranging conversation about the current political landscape in California.

They discuss the upcoming California Republican Party convention and the high-stakes endorsement battle between Steve Hilton and Chad Bianco, including how the endorsement process works and what’s at stake for the party.

The conversation then turns to the governor’s race, with a breakdown of the leading Democratic candidates — including Katie Porter, Eric Swalwell, and Tom Steyer — and why some campaigns are gaining traction while others are not.

Jon and Park also take a closer look at Governor Gavin Newsom, examining his record in California, his national ambitions, and the real-world impact of policies on affordability, jobs, and public safety.

Throughout the discussion, Park provides insight into how campaigns actually operate — especially at the local level — and why engagement still matters, even in a state dominated by one party.

The episode closes with a lightning round covering leadership, history, and policy priorities.

Get all of your news and commentary on California politics at So, Does It Matter?

Useful Links

John Park CAGOP Vice Chairman on X

John Park Vice Chairman Website

Senesis (Campaign Consulting)

California Republican Party Website

Jon Fleischman on X