I think the opposite. It is the CA GOP rank and file that are by and large pre-programmed for RINOs, just like here in WA. A strong, confident REAL conservative would do well in both locations. But the GOP powers that be fight them all the way.
Actually, I don’t disagree with you. A Repub is a tough sell in California but a conservative is not a tougher sell, in fact a “moderate” is a tougher sell because they can’t distinguish themselves clearly enough from the Democrats. A conservative has no choice but to present his case boldly. A moderate is forever trying to downplay the differences and consequently can’t persuade anyone.