Those efforts did so well last time.
It went OK last time.
I would say, the problems was, that Larry Elder was just too radical for many Californians. At least was portraited that way.
They should learn and put up against Newsom some more moderate and better known alternative like the former major of San Diego.
This sorry state was not created overnight and cannot be undone overnight either.
Unfortunately, California Republicans are insane. A moderate like Kevin Faulconer might've won but once Larry Elder jumped into the race, it was all over.