Potential Presidential Contenders Speak at California Democratic Convention

The state Democratic Convention is drawing big names in California's political world, many running for statewide office. But some of the most prominent speakers aren't running for anything — at least not yet. Several possible presidential contenders addressed the delegates this weekend, including Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti.

The mayor insists he's not running for president in 2020. Still, recent visits to Wisconsin, New Hampshire, Indiana and South Carolina give the impression he might be thinking about it. During his speech at the California Convention, Garcetti focused mainly on national, rather than state, themes. But, he says, that's what he's most worried about.

In a reference to the recent school shooting in Florida, Garcetti said "when it comes to public safety, we're hearing more from our teenagers than we are from our president."

Talking to reporters afterwards, Garcetti reiterated his emphasis on national issues.

"I'm concerned about the lack of leadership nationally and the impact on my city and on my fellow mayors' cities," he said. "I think that's where you see the biggest contrast. Some people who are just sending tweets and some people who are fixing our streets."

After Garcetti spoke, billionaire Tom Steyer took the stage. His wealth and activism have made him a consistent focus of political speculation. Is he going to run for Senate? Governor? President? Steyer won't say. But he has been outspoken about his opposition to Donald Trump, even launching a petition calling for the president's impeachment.

"Our democracy is under attack from Washington D.C," Steyer told a cheering convention crowd. "Our families and our children are under attack from Washington D.C. And only a Democratic party of principles will restore our values, renew our faith in the future and reclaim America for America's people."

U.S. Senator Kamala Harris made an appearance too. She's been mentioned as a possible presidential contender since she joined the Senate. Harris used her time on the convention stage to call for permanent protection to the hundreds of thousands of young people who were brought to the country illegally as children.

"We need to pass the Dream Act and protect these young people from deportation, and we must do it now," she said. "And let's be honest about who this administration really is. They don't want a solution for the dreamers. They want red meat for their base."

The last Californian who made it to the White House was Ronald Reagan. Whether 2020 will usher in another West Coast president remains to seen.