In a recent episode of "Pod Save America," Rep. Katie Porter, D-Calif., expressed regret for her choice of words after her failed bid to advance to the general election in the California Senate primary. Porter had previously ignited controversy by claiming that billionaires tried to "rig" the election.

Porter acknowledged her regret, stating, "Obviously I wish I'd chosen a different word." She emphasized that she never intended to suggest any flaws in California's election system. On the contrary, she praised it as a careful, thoughtful, and amazing model that other states could learn from.

The controversy erupted when Porter thanked her supporters immediately after the March 5 primary. While addressing them, she implied that the election had been rigged, mentioning the establishment's fear and the influence of billionaires who allegedly spent millions of dollars to manipulate the outcome.

It didn't take long for Porter's choice of words to draw comparisons to former President Donald Trump's false claims of election rigging and widespread fraud. However, Porter highlighted an important point during her podcast appearance - the influence of big money in elections. She argued that outcomes can be manipulated and distorted by last-minute influxes of untraceable funds.

The backlash against Porter's initial comments prompted Democratic Rep. Adam Schiff, who is advancing to the November runoff election in the Senate race, to address the issue. Schiff remarked that the term "rigged" carries strong connotations of fraud and false claims, as perpetuated by Donald Trump. He commended his fellow Democrats for swiftly clarifying that the election was legitimate, highlighting the contrast with how the Republican Party handles allegations of rigged elections.

In the upcoming November election, Schiff will face off against Republican candidate Steve Garvey for the Senate seat previously held by longtime Sen. Dianne Feinstein. In February of last year, Feinstein announced she would retire at the end of 2024 but tragically passed away in September. California Governor Gavin Newsom appointed Laphonza Butler to serve the remainder of Feinstein's term, but Butler has stated that she will not run in 2024.

Porter's expression of regret highlights the importance of careful language in the context of election discourse. While acknowledging the influence of big money in politics, she clarifies her support for the integrity of California's election system. As the Senate race continues, attention shifts towards the upcoming November runoff between Schiff and Garvey.