California Republicans to choose new leader this weekend

The California Republican convention is taking place in Sacramento, where the party will elect a new leader this weekend. The vote will fill the position left by Jessica Millan Patterson, who has served since 2019. Candidates for the chair position are Corrin Rankin, the current vice chair, and former State Senator Michael Morrell. Rankin is seen as a strong contender, aiming to increase Republican representation in Congress and the state legislature. The party faces challenges, including a loss of fundraising support after the departure of former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. About 1,100 attendees are registered for the convention, which features speakers like Congressman Tony Gonzalez and activist Riley Gaines.