California Black Media
SAN FRANCISCO — Black Democratic candidates walked away from last weekend’s state party convention with a mixed but telling set of results.
One race in particular delivered a headline-making surprise. The biggest jolt came in the contest for superintendent of public instruction, where educator Nichelle Henderson outpaced better-known contenders, including former Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon, to lead the delegate vote.
In a field that included seasoned political figures with statewide name recognition, Henderson’s strong showing signaled that grassroots appeal and an education-centered message may be resonating more deeply with party activists than traditional political résumés.
Her first-place finish positions her as a candidate to watch as the June primary approaches and suggests that delegates are open to elevating new voices over established power players.
Henderson, who serves on the Los Angeles Community College District Board of Trustees, faces several other candidates who have larger political profiles. In addition to Rendon, they include Assemblyman Al Muratsuchi, D-Torrance, former state Sen. Josh Newman and San Diego school board member Richard Barrera.
The incumbent is Tony Thurmond, who is termed out of office and running for governor in the June primary.
Beyond Henderson’s breakout performance, other Black candidates saw varying degrees of success that offered an early measure of organizational strength and enthusiasm within party ranks.
In the race for lieutenant governor, former Stockton Mayor Michael Tubbs captured 24% of delegate support in a competitive field. While not enough to dominate the contest, the share reflects a meaningful base of backing among activists and underscores his continued relevance in statewide politics.
Secretary of State Shirley Weber, running unopposed, demonstrated overwhelming party support with 96% of delegate votes. Controller candidate Malia Cohen, also without opposition, secured 95%, reinforcing her strong standing within the party establishment.
The results were more challenging in the race for Insurance Commissioner. Former state Sen. Steven Bradford trailed competitors Jane Kim, a former member of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors and state Sen. Ben Allen, D-Santa Monica, in delegate backing, highlighting the uphill climb he faces in a contest featuring candidates with broader statewide visibility.
Meanwhile, Mike Gipson, running unopposed for Board of Equalization District Three, earned 80% of delegate support.
