The California Democratic Convention kicks off in Anaheim with 4,000 delegates attending.

ANAHEIM, Calif. —

The California Democratic Convention is officially underway in Anaheim, marking the party’s largest gathering since the 2024 presidential election.  

About 4,000 Democrats are expected to fill the Anaheim Convention Center this weekend. It’s the first time party members across the state are meeting in person since last November. 

To the Point host Alex Bell is covering the convention ahead of a pivotal governor’s race in 2026. She sat down with California Democratic Party Chairman Rusty Hicks to discuss who is showing up, who isn’t, and what’s next for the party.

The race to California’s next governor is already taking shape and it runs straight through this weekend’s convention. The top seven candidates running for governor are in attendance campaigning for the race in 2026, but the spotlight isn’t just on the candidates. Two big names are noticeably missing from the crowd — Gov. Gavin Newsom and former Vice President Kamala Harris.  

ABC10 asked Hicks his thoughts on Newsom’s decision to not attend this year’s convention after the party has showed strong support for his administration. 

“Well, I think it’s a reminder that there are 10 million Californian democrats in this state, that this is an incredibly diverse party and there are a lot of important voices in this party,” Hicks said. “We’re going to hear from many of them over the course of the next couple days. So, I’m excited about the lineup and I certainly know that he will continue to do his work as our governor.” 

Many people are also wondering if Harris will be attending. Hicks confirmed with ABC10 that Harris will not be attending the convention. 

One of the main focuses for the party this year is the governor’s race. 

“Certainly the fight for 2026 doesn’t start in 2026, it starts right here right now.” Hicks said, adding that another focus is pushing back on decisions coming out of Washington D.C. “California is right in the firing line when it comes to the actions of the trump administration be it tariffs or taxes or a tax on communities. So, we have to both protect vulnerable communities and ensure that we are organizing for the political fights ahead. I think we are well positioned to do both.” 

Delegates at the convention told ABC10 they’re eager to hear from all the candidates. Jack Flynn, a delegate from Fairfield and school board member, said education is his top concern.

“As a school board member, my top priority is education, But there is so much we need to do,” Flynn said.

Delegates also want to hear how the next governor is going to address affordability, lack of housing, and cuts to education, all while facing a budget deficit. 

“California is a beautiful state,” said Shirley Toy, A Sacramento delegate. “We need more housing. And we need health care for everybody.” 

WATCH MORE ON ABC10 | California Governor Race | Here’s who’s running so far | California Governor Race 2026

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