The early primary rush drew Republican presidential contenders to California this past weekend for the state GOP convention. California is joining New York and perhaps 11 other states in considering a March 7 primary. The Golden State used to hold its primary in June. With so many states front-loading primaries, the nominating season will essentially be over next March. Because the big names have a better chance of raising big money needed to compete in several states simultaneously.
Big money is needed to reach delegate-rich states on opposite coasts.
Television, not hand shaking, will be the way garner votes. That stair-stepping benefited Democrats Michael Dukakis in 1988 and Jimmy Carter in 1976. Florida contends moving up the primary makes it a player in a national nominating process. The idea has bipartisan support and is expected to be approved. Most here say it could give Gov. Jeb Bush's big brother George W. Bush a crucial victory should he decide to run.