Story perspectives

California Candidates Clash Over Environmental Policies at Forum

1/30/2026

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Summary

Story summary

At the January 29, 2026 forum, California gubernatorial candidates discussed environmental policies.
Democratic candidates Katie Porter (D-Calif.) and Xavier Becerra (D-Calif.) emphasized affordable electric vehicles and charging infrastructure.
They largely agreed on climate action and water protection, while opposing the Delta tunnel project.
Republican candidates Chad Bianco (R-Calif.) and Steve Hilton (R-Calif.) declined to participate.
Democrats cited high living costs and gas prices as ongoing challenges to progressive environmental aims.

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Story summary

At the January 29, 2026 forum, California gubernatorial candidates discussed environmental policies.
Democratic candidates Katie Porter (D-Calif.) and Xavier Becerra (D-Calif.) emphasized affordable electric vehicles and charging infrastructure.
They largely agreed on climate action and water protection, while opposing the Delta tunnel project.
Republican candidates Chad Bianco (R-Calif.) and Steve Hilton (R-Calif.) declined to participate.
Democrats cited high living costs and gas prices as ongoing challenges to progressive environmental aims.