Story perspectives

Eight Make Debate, Steyer Dumps $132 M, Hilton Leads

4/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

Only eight of the 61 certified candidates qualified for the Pomona College gubernatorial debate on April 28.
Polls show Republican Steve Hilton leads with 17 percent, while Democrats Xavier Becerra and billionaire Tom Steyer each have about 13-14 percent.
Billionaire Tom Steyer has spent more than $132 million on his campaign, far outpacing any other candidate.
Republican Steve Hilton and Sheriff Chad Bianco lead the field, making a two-Republican general-election scenario possible.

History

Historical Context

Congress passed the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act in 2002 to bar corporate electioneering ads. The Supreme Court’s 2010 Citizens United decision struck down that ban, treating corporations as First-Amendment speakers. After the ruling, independent groups proliferated; the FEC later fined Swift Boat Veterans $299,500 for registration violations. Today, billionaire Tom Steyer’s $132 million spend in the California governor’s race reflects that legacy.

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Story summary

Only eight of the 61 certified candidates qualified for the Pomona College gubernatorial debate on April 28.
Polls show Republican Steve Hilton leads with 17 percent, while Democrats Xavier Becerra and billionaire Tom Steyer each have about 13-14 percent.
Billionaire Tom Steyer has spent more than $132 million on his campaign, far outpacing any other candidate.
Republican Steve Hilton and Sheriff Chad Bianco lead the field, making a two-Republican general-election scenario possible.

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