Democratic Rep. Adam Schiff strategically positioned himself for an apparent easy win as California’s next senator by supporting a Republican rival, Steve Garvey, in the state’s open primary.

The tactic, however, has stirred significant division within the Democratic Party. Schiff and Garvey emerged as the top contenders, virtually guaranteeing Schiff’s success in the November general election.

Schiff and affiliated groups inundated California with attack ads portraying Garvey as excessively conservative, aiming to attract GOP voters and secure an uncomplicated victory for Schiff.

However, progressive Reps. Katie Porter and Barbara Lee, positioned to the left of Schiff, are now critical of his campaign strategy.

Porter even suggested that billionaires had “rigged the election,” drawing backlash from fellow Democrats cautioning against echoing the rhetoric used by former President Trump, Axios reported.

Porter has yet to concede the race and congratulate Schiff, according to a source. Lee and Porter argue that Schiff’s triumph is more a result of financial influence than the strength of the progressive movement.

During an election night speech, Porter claimed Schiff spent more on boosting the Republican than on his own campaign.

Despite criticisms, Schiff dismissed the claims, stating on Fox 11 that Democrats spending millions against each other is not wise.

Some Democrats have rebuked Porter for alleging election rigging, citing concerns about the irresponsibility of such statements amid persistent election denialism in the GOP.

Written by B.C. Begley