No, political affiliation does not have strong protections in CA, and OP is not arguably correct, as "protected status" is absolutely a term of art in law, and does not apply here.
Besides, even if that were true, it's morally wrong and should not be true, as you can (and should) change your political affiliation at will, including in response to negative feedback from your community.
Besides, even if that were true, it's morally wrong and should not be true, as you can (and should) change your political affiliation at will, including in response to negative feedback from your community.