On the evening of October 1, 2025, in a quiet corner of the westside of Los Angeles, a meeting unfolded that could reshape California’s political future. At The Range LA, a small group of gubernatorial candidates convened, their gathering carrying the gravity of a state at a crossroads. As an observer that evening, I witnessed a moment that felt quietly historic.
California, grappling with rising costs, public safety concerns, and a restless electorate, hungers for leadership to bridge divides. This meeting, though contained, held the promise of a new direction.
Seeds of the Moment
The moment traced its origins to the California GOP Convention weeks earlier. There, David Serpa sparked a series of conversations, including a two-hour discussion with Steve Hilton and countless sidebars with others who would soon gather again. From those exchanges, this Los Angeles meeting was born.
The Gathering
From the first arrivals, the occasion’s significance was palpable. A photograph of Ronald Reagan in cowboy garb hung in the lobby, a nod to an era when California’s story took a different turn.
The air carried no rivalry, only fraternity—a fellowship born of a shared mission larger than any one man. All had traveled far, none from nearby. Ironically, Che Ahn and Leo Zacky, who lived closest, were invited but chose not attend.
David Serpa arrived first, steady and assured, followed by Coby Marcum, with the quiet resolve of a working man. Daniel Mercuri, Ryan Tillman, and Steve Hilton entered in succession, their presence filling the lobby. Last was Sheriff Chad Bianco, delayed by his elected duties, his uniform pressed, his handshake firm, his smile disarming.
Behind Closed Doors
When the candidates entered the private room, only they sat down together. Through three windows, observers read their gestures—tilted heads, leaned shoulders, serious expressions—speaking volumes. Though their words remained private, the discussion likely turned to California’s pressing challenges: economic strain, public safety, and a growing demand for change. There was no shouting, no clash of egos, only the burden of men grappling with their state’s condition.
Steve Hilton stepped out briefly for a Fox News interview, returning as Sheriff Bianco left for his flight to another campaign stop. When the doors opened for these moments, the air felt lighter. The candidates emerged in good spirits—smiles, handshakes, embraces—remarkable from men sharing a single ambition: to be Governor of California.
Voices of Leadership
Later, I spoke with each candidate. David Serpa, the host, carried a steady presence. Daniel Mercuri’s eyes lit up at the mention of the Constitution. Sheriff Chad Bianco spoke with excitement about new Turning Point chapters and broader collaboration. Ryan Tillman reflected on the political awakening of a younger generation. Coby Marcum, with the unvarnished grit of an underdog, stood resolute. Steve Hilton, more somber, revealed his worry for the state but softened in conversation, walking with Serpa to his car like old friends.
A Moment for California
They were not just candidates that night. They were leaders—varied in background, temperament, and vision—who gave their time to listen, speak, and envision a better California. Whatever their campaigns’ fates, for one evening on the westside of Los Angeles, these men set aside personal ambition to serve a state ready to turn once more, as it did under Reagan’s gaze decades ago.
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