California governor candidates debate amid chaotic primary race

The six leading candidates for California governor participated in their first major televised debate this week, following the abrupt exit of former congressman Eric Swalwell from the race due to sexual assault and misconduct allegations. With no clear frontrunner, nearly a quarter of voters remain undecided ahead of the June 2 primary elections.

Hosted by Nexstar Media Group, the debate featured two Republicans, Steve Hilton and Chad Bianco, alongside four prominent Democrats: Tom Steyer, Xavier Becerra, Katie Porter, and Matt Mahan. The candidates clashed over pressing issues such as homelessness, the cost of living, and housing affordability. Hilton, who has received Donald Trump’s endorsement, criticized the Democratic governance over the past 16 years, stating, "The system is not working."

While the Democrats largely agreed on policy, they competed to present themselves as the best option to address California's challenges. Becerra emphasized his experience as California's attorney general, while Steyer sought to position himself as a progressive champion. Porter, a protégé of Senator Elizabeth Warren, differentiated herself by stating, "I’m not like them. I’m like you – a mom fighting for a better future for California."

Despite the lively exchanges, the debate did not yield a decisive moment to solidify a frontrunner. Candidates like Becerra and Mahan, who joined the debate later, have seen their support grow following Swalwell's campaign collapse. The looming primary raises concerns among Democrats about the potential for two Republicans to advance to the general election under California's "jungle primary" system, which allows the top two vote-getters, regardless of party, to proceed.

As the race intensifies, state party chair Rusty Hicks has urged low-polling Democrats to exit the race to consolidate support. The political landscape remains precarious, with the electorate growing increasingly pessimistic about affordability and economic prospects in California.