BLOOMINGTON, Minn. -- Former Senate Republican Leader Jim Brulte (R-Rancho Cucamonga) said state Republicans have reason to worry in California this fall, regardless of how presumptive Republican presidential nominee John McCain does.

"If there's a wave, you've got to make sure you're on it," said Brulte, who served in both the State Assembly and Senate during the 1990s and early 2000s and is attending the Republican National Convention this week as a delegate. "And if it's coming at you, you have to be ready for it."

Brulte said he's told candidates in state races that may be tight that they should work extra hard to ensure victory. He's also told even supposedly safe Republicans not to take anything for granted.

"The Republicans in California have almost worked their way through a very difficult period," he said. He noted that apart from Insurance Commissioner Steve Poizner, Republicans haven't won a statewide race for an open seat since 1994.

"I think the Republican Party has to actively realize that this is a very tough state to win," Brulte said.