Republican and Democratic parties are navigating competitive primary dynamics in two states ahead of upcoming gubernatorial elections.

In Iowa, five Republican candidates are competing for their party's nomination in the June 2 primary election. The winner of that contest will face Democrat Rob Sand in the November general election for governor.

Meanwhile in California, Democrats are expressing concern about potentially being excluded from the 2028 gubernatorial general election under the state's current primary system. The prospect of an all-Republican general election has prompted Democratic efforts to eliminate California's "top-two" open primary approach.

Under California's current system, all candidates regardless of party affiliation compete in a single primary, with the two highest vote-getters advancing to the general election. This structure can theoretically result in two candidates from the same party facing off in November if they receive the most votes in the primary.

The Democratic push to change the primary rules reflects strategic concerns about maintaining competitive general elections and ensuring party representation on the ballot in future gubernatorial races.