California Democrats endorse Ben Allen, sparking debate over socialist influence

In a closely watched intra-party contest, California Democrats officially endorsed Ben Allen for the insurance commissioner post, granting him more than 60% of the party’s support. Jane Kim, a former San Francisco supervisor who had led the June primary, was passed over after a widely criticized interview and her advocacy for a government-run home insurance model. Party officials argued that Kim's platform was too radical, while her backers pointed to endorsements from Senator Bernie Sanders.

The endorsement battle reflects broader friction within the party, as progressive members push for Proposition 40, a proposed 5% wealth tax on the state’s billionaires, despite limited enthusiasm from Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Xavier Becerra. Critics warn that the growing socialist wing could steer California and national politics toward more extreme policies.