California Gubernatorial Debate Scheduled
The first statewide gubernatorial debate in California has been scheduled for Tuesday evening. Seven candidates will participate, offering a key opportunity to appeal to voters ahead of the June primary election. The debate is expected to cover a wide range of issues facing the state.
- The debate was held at the historic Ruth Williams Bay View Opera House in San Francisco and was hosted by KTVU FOX 2, KTTV FOX 11, and the Black Action Alliance. - The seven candidates who participated were former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, former California State Controller Betty Yee, former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra, political commentator Steve Hilton, entrepreneur Tom Steyer, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, and San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan. - This election marks the state's first open gubernatorial contest since 2018, as incumbent Governor Gavin Newsom is term-limited and cannot run for reelection. - The debate featured six Democratic candidates and one Republican, Steve Hilton. Notable candidates who did not participate include U.S. Rep. Katie Porter and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco. - Key issues discussed during the debate included the high cost of living, housing affordability, homelessness, and public safety. - The format for the debate included one-minute opening and closing statements for each candidate, one minute to answer questions, and a 30-second rebuttal if their name was mentioned by another candidate. - Following this debate, another forum with five of the Democratic candidates is scheduled for March 12 in Monterey. - The primary election is scheduled for June 2, 2026, where the top two vote-getters, regardless of party, will advance to the general election on November 3, 2026.
