Two figures with deep ties to the Westminster and Whitehall establishments are currently leading the vote count in California's gubernatorial primary. A former British political aide, now a naturalised US citizen, is neck and neck with a Biden administration cabinet secretary. The race is too close to call. But both are well ahead of the pack.
The first is a familiar face to those who followed the Brexit wars. He served as a special adviser to a prominent Leave campaigner. His move to California was seen as a fresh start. Now he is on the verge of a stunning political comeback. He has run on a platform of fiscal conservatism and tech-friendly regulation. Silicon Valley donors have flocked to him.
His rival is no stranger to power. A former White House chief of staff, she resigned to run for governor. She has the backing of the Democratic establishment and organised labour. Her campaign has focused on housing affordability and climate action. But she has struggled to shake off the label of DC insider.
The vote count has been delayed by technical glitches and a surge in postal ballots. Tensions are high in both camps. Leaks from campaign headquarters suggest panic in one and cautious optimism in the other. The British aide's camp is confident. They point to strong turnout in Republican-leaning counties. The cabinet secretary's team is banking on late mail-in votes from urban centres.
The race has been defined by a series of bitter debates. The British aide attacked his opponent as a 'career politician.' She hit back by highlighting his ties to controversial Brexit figures. But the mudslinging appears not to have harmed either candidate. Polling data shows both are viewed favourably by their respective bases.
If the British aide wins, he would be the first foreign-born governor of California since the 19th century. His victory would send shockwaves through US politics. It would also be a personal vindication after his tumultuous departure from Westminster. Allies say he has learned from his mistakes. Critics call him an opportunist.
The cabinet secretary, conversely, would make history as the first female governor of California. She has run a disciplined campaign. Her focus on policy details has won plaudits from pundits. But some worry she lacks the charisma needed to win a general election.
As the count continues, backroom deal making begins. Both candidates are sounding out potential running mates. Cabinet appointments are being discussed. The loser may be offered a role in the winner's administration. Such is the game. Alliances shift quickly.
The final result will not be known for days. But one thing is certain. The outcome will reshape California politics for a generation. The eyes of the world are on Sacramento. And two figures with roots in a distant political culture are at the centre of it all. Watch this space.
