LOS ANGELES – President Donald Trump is congratulating Republican John Cox for his second-place finish in California’s primary for governor, saying the “Trump impact was really big” and predicting a possible “big Red Wave” of Republican wins.

California was among eight states holding primary contests on Tuesday. While the latest results ensure Republicans a spot in the California gubernatorial race, Cox still faces long odds in a state where Democrats are increasingly dominant.

Trump tweeted Wednesday of Cox: “He can win. Even Fake News CNN said the Trump impact was really big, much bigger than they ever thought possible. So much for the big Blue Wave, it may be a big Red Wave. Working hard!”