Q: Does the Republican Party need to expand its appeal to become more competitive here?

A: I’m a Jack Kemp Republican. I think that’s the kind of Republican we all have to be. Jack would always speak positively about things. I want people to get away from harsh language.

Having said that, it is absolutely objectionable for people like Gavin Newsom and Jerry Brown to say they are not going to adhere to the federal law on immigration. Jerry Brown should not be acting like George Wallace in front of the schoolhouse in Alabama.

Q: How much of an obstacle is Mr. Trump for you as you run for governor?

A: I’m at a forum a few weeks ago and I’m listening to these Democrats ripping him up. I said: “Donald Trump didn’t create the housing crisis. Donald Trump didn’t create a drought. Donald Trump didn’t raise your taxes to ridiculous heights. You are sitting here making Donald Trump the issue.” The issue on the ballot in 2018 is not going to be Donald Trump.

Q: How do you think he is doing for president?

A: I didn’t vote for him. But I take great pains to say I like the tax cut. I like the regulations that he is streamlining. I like the judges he’s appointing. I like moving the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem. So he’s done some great things. I’m not a huge fan of his Twittering.