Donald Trump gives California Democrats a big, fat gift.

Key Points:

• California Democrats face a crowded gubernatorial primary with many candidates diluting the vote, raising the risk that two Republicans could advance to the general election under the state's top-two primary system.
• President Donald Trump endorsed Republican Steve Hilton, likely consolidating the GOP vote behind Hilton and reducing the chances of Republican vote-splitting that could have excluded Democrats from the general election.
• The endorsement effectively ends Republicans' slim chance of winning the governor's race while preventing a potentially disastrous scenario of two Republicans advancing, which would have suppressed Republican turnout statewide.
• Democrats can now focus on rallying behind a single candidate to break through the crowded field, as Trump’s endorsement has simplified the Republican side by designating Hilton as the favored GOP candidate.
• While the primary remains months away, Trump’s move unintentionally aids Democrats by reducing intra-GOP competition and helping ensure a Democrat will be in the November general election race.