Story perspectives

Slugfest Gubernatorial Debate Sparks as Mail Voting Begins

5/7/2026

Summary

Story summary

The California gubernatorial debate became a slugfest as mail voting began for June 2 primary, with candidates attacking immigration, billionaire tax, and President Donald Trump.
Democrat Tom Steyer, Democrat Katie Porter and Republican Chad Bianco took stance: Steyer backed billionaire tax, Porter called it narrow, Bianco called sanctuary policies unsafe.
Republican Steve Hilton and Democrat Xavier Becerra received 18 percent support, suggesting two Republicans could finish in top two of June 2 primary.

History

Historical Context

In November 1994, Governor Pete Wilson championed Proposition 187, which voters approved by 59% despite an estimated 1.3 million undocumented residents. Federal courts struck it down by 1997 and Governor Gray Davis ended appeals in 1999, but the vote spurred Latino voters toward Democratic Party, reshaping California elections. The legacy resurfaces as candidates Tom Steyer and Donald Trump invoke immigration and tax themes in the current gubernatorial race.

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Story summary

The California gubernatorial debate became a slugfest as mail voting began for June 2 primary, with candidates attacking immigration, billionaire tax, and President Donald Trump.
Democrat Tom Steyer, Democrat Katie Porter and Republican Chad Bianco took stance: Steyer backed billionaire tax, Porter called it narrow, Bianco called sanctuary policies unsafe.
Republican Steve Hilton and Democrat Xavier Becerra received 18 percent support, suggesting two Republicans could finish in top two of June 2 primary.

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