Kashkari aims to unify California GOP after weekend divisions

Republican gubernatorial candidate Neel Kashkari is making the most of his low-profile speaking slot at the party’s convention.

He delivered a spirited defense of the GOP Sunday morning, telling about 450 delegates in Los Angeles that he wants to reintroduce the party to Californians as the party that cares about poor people and minorities.

The former U.S. Treasury official has sought to unify the party after a divisive primary and a weekend of dissension.

Gubernatorial candidates are typically the most visible part of a state party’s roster in an election year and usually get top billing at a convention, but Kashkari was slated for the final day.

Friday night’s keynote, controller candidate Ashley Swearengin, distanced herself from the party and said she’s still considering voting for Democratic Gov. Jerry Brown.