San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer had the support of 20 percent of respondents in a poll that asked Californians to pick their favorite candidate for the 2018 governor's race, even though he hasn't declared an intention to run for the state's top office.
The poll was taken at the end of January on behalf of Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat who is the only declared candidate, the website Politico reported Friday. Newsom was supported by 30 percent of the respondents.
"If the question is — who do you think (is) the best Republican candidate for governor, it's Faulconer," Republican strategist Brandon Gesicki told Politico.
"He can appeal to lots of cross-sections of people — he's had to, in San Diego. He's fiscally responsible, and turning the city around," Gesicki said. "His tone is not loud or negative, but he's assertive, and he works with people to accomplish the goals."
The website also reported that Faulconer, who is running for reelection as mayor of California's second-largest city this year, is "quietly" attending GOP events around the state, delivering speeches and making friends with possible future donors.
Jason Roe, Faulconer's campaign manager, said the mayor attended a fundraiser for his re-election in Sacramento, as he did two years ago.
"The speculation is flattering, but he's focused on being mayor," Roe said.
Former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, a Democrat, was in third place in the survey of 600 likely voters with 8 percent. The top Republican other than Faulconer was Fresno Mayor Ashley Swearengin, a Republican, with 6 percent.
The poll, conducted by David Binder Research, had a margin of error of 4 percent.
