California's governor recall system makes it really easy to get a Republican governor for their state.
They don't even need a general election.
To get a recall on a ballot, they only need a petition of 12% of the voter turnout from the previous election.
So they only need one third of those that voted Republican. That's quite easy for a party to say they want a recall for any reason.
Then there is a yes/no question: Should the current governor be recalled?
It's not hard to get 50% of the people who turn out for an off year election to do that.
Then, for those that vote yes, they have to pick a candidate.
Whoever gets the most votes becomes the next governor - it could only be 20% of the voters choice.
Newsome cannot be one of the choices.
Democrats are not in favor of the recall, so they are not promoting any particular candidate.
If 50% agree to a recall, they probably get a Republican governor without having to campaign in a general election against a chosen Democrat.
At least have a two part system.
Recall, yes or no. Then a campaign between candidates in an open election.
https://www.vox.com/22617048/california-recall-gavin-newsom-larry-elder