Full Breakdown
California Gubernatorial Race: Candidates Spar in Chaotic Debate
4/23/2026, 7:28:40 PM
Overview of the Race
The California gubernatorial race has intensified following the exit of former Congressman Eric Swalwell amid sexual misconduct allegations. With the primary election set for June 2, six candidates—four Democrats and two Republicans—faced off in a televised debate on April 22, 2026. The candidates included Democrats Tom Steyer, Xavier Becerra, Katie Porter, and Matt Mahan, alongside Republicans Steve Hilton and Chad Bianco. The debate highlighted key issues such as homelessness, the cost of living, and the candidates' contrasting visions for California's future.
Key Candidates and Their Positions
Tom Steyer
Billionaire activist Tom Steyer has positioned himself as a progressive candidate, emphasizing his commitment to environmental issues and labor rights. He received an endorsement from the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), which praised his dedication to protecting union jobs in Hollywood. Steyer has proposed a tax on AI computations to fund training for displaced workers and criticized corporate mergers that threaten jobs. He stated, “I’m the billionaire who wants to tax other billionaires,” framing himself as a change agent in the race.
Xavier Becerra
Former California Attorney General Xavier Becerra has seen a surge in support since Swalwell's departure, positioning himself as a steady leader capable of governing during crises. He emphasized his experience, stating, “We need someone who knows how to govern in a crisis, not someone who’s going to need training wheels.” Becerra has received endorsements from several Democratic lawmakers and has been actively campaigning to consolidate support among undecided voters.
Katie Porter
Former Congresswoman Katie Porter has focused on her identity as a working mother and her commitment to fighting for California families. She has faced scrutiny over a past incident involving her treatment of a staffer but has publicly acknowledged her mistakes. Porter criticized both Steyer and Becerra for their ties to corporate interests, stating, “One candidate is a billionaire who got rich off polluters and ICE prisons and is now using that money to fund this election.”
Matt Mahan
San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan has sought to differentiate himself by emphasizing his local governance experience and his moderate stance on issues. He has criticized Steyer for his past investments in private prisons, asserting, “The only housing Tom Steyer has built has been private prisons and ICE detention centers.” Mahan aims to appeal to voters concerned about homelessness and housing affordability.
Steve Hilton
Republican candidate Steve Hilton, endorsed by former President Donald Trump, has positioned himself as a populist outsider. He criticized the Democratic leadership for California's high cost of living and homelessness crisis, stating, “We’ve had 16 years of one-party rule—it’s given us the highest poverty rate, the highest unemployment rate, the highest cost of living in America.” Hilton advocates for a partnership with the federal government to address state issues.
Chad Bianco
Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco has echoed Hilton's criticisms of Democratic governance, arguing that the state's problems stem from years of one-party rule. He has called for stricter enforcement of laws regarding homelessness, stating, “It is illegal to live and camp on the streets.” Bianco's approach emphasizes a tough stance on crime and government accountability.
Debate Highlights
During the debate, candidates exchanged barbs over their records and proposed solutions to California's pressing issues. The discussion on homelessness revealed stark partisan divides, with Democrats generally defending outgoing Governor Gavin Newsom's efforts while Republicans lambasted the state's handling of the crisis. The candidates also debated the state's gas tax, with differing opinions on whether it should be reduced or reformed.
Official Statements & Responses
In response to criticisms, Steyer defended his record on housing and environmental issues, while Becerra highlighted his extensive experience in government. Porter and Mahan challenged their opponents' pasts, aiming to position themselves as the candidates of change. The debate underscored the urgency for candidates to distinguish themselves in a crowded field, as polls indicate a significant number of undecided voters.
What's Next
As the primary approaches, candidates will continue to campaign vigorously, with mail-in ballots set to be sent to voters on May 4. The outcome of the primary will determine which two candidates advance to the general election, regardless of party affiliation, raising concerns among Democrats about the possibility of two Republicans making it to the November ballot.
