Story perspectives

California Democrats Urge Boycott of USC Gubernatorial Debate

3/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

California Democratic leaders urge voters to boycott USC's gubernatorial debate on March 24 unless excluded candidates are invited.
Critics say selection criteria favored white candidates and excluded candidates of color.
Four Democrats, including Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) and former Rep. Katie Porter (D-Calif.), have called for rivals to boycott the debate.
USC officials defended the selection process as unbiased.
The debate is crucial because ballots are mailed to voters within weeks.

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Story summary

California Democratic leaders urge voters to boycott USC's gubernatorial debate on March 24 unless excluded candidates are invited.
Critics say selection criteria favored white candidates and excluded candidates of color.
Four Democrats, including Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) and former Rep. Katie Porter (D-Calif.), have called for rivals to boycott the debate.
USC officials defended the selection process as unbiased.
The debate is crucial because ballots are mailed to voters within weeks.