When Simon ran for governor in 2002, the state leadership did almost nothing for him. If they'd have gotten behind the guy he would have won. He actually did pretty well considering.
As for why, I haven't the foggiest. I don't think the Republican leadership views conservatism to be it's bellweather driving force. They act as if they think conservatives are the opposites of the Nader camp.
Thanks to both of you; I'm just used to Texas politics...don't know much about California.