Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images

Republican presidential candidate and former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney gives a thumbs on July 20, 2011 in Los Angeles, California.

Yesterday two of the biggest names in Republican politics were in the southland. No it wasn’t Bachman and Cain. Former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney and all-but-declared Governor Rick Perry of Texas were in town meeting with donors and attending fundraisers. The truth is California will have little to do with selecting the next republican candidate for president, the California primary has been moved to June, a date by which the candidate will probably already be chosen. However, California money plays a very big role. Last time Romney ran for president his largest haul of campaign cash came from California Republicans - more than $8 million dollars! Perry’s no slouch at fundraising either. An independent group of Perry supporters in San Diego raised $400,000 dollars in just a couple of weeks. Money aside, the two potential candidates are also competing for political support from California’s grand ol’ party. Some who supported Romney in the past are switching their allegiance Governor Perry. Just how bad is that for Mitt Romney? Does Perry’s entry into the race strengthen what some are calling a weak field? And are either of these top republicans destined to be the next GOP pick for president?

Guest:

Frank Stoltze, KPCC Reporter