California governor candidates clash over taxes and healthcare

May 06, 2026

Reported by AI

Democratic and Republican contenders for California's governorship sparred Tuesday night in a televised debate over taxes, healthcare access, and state spending amid a widening budget deficit.

Seven candidates appeared on stage in the CNN-hosted forum, including Democrats Xavier Becerra, Katie Porter, Tom Steyer, Matt Mahan, and Antonio Villaraigosa, along with Republicans Chad Bianco and Steve Hilton. The discussion centered on California's $18 billion budget shortfall for the 2026-2027 fiscal year and proposals to expand services.

California Democratic Party Chair Rusty Hicks urges 2026 gubernatorial candidates to assess viability and avoid GOP top-two primary win, illustrated at a Capitol press conference.

California Democrats’ chair urges gubernatorial candidates to assess viability to avoid GOP top-two scenario

March 03, 2026 Reported by AI Image generated by AI Fact checked

California Democratic Party Chair Rusty Hicks urged Democrats running for governor in 2026 to take an “honest” look at whether they can reach the top two in the state’s June 2 primary, warning that a splintered field could, in a low-probability scenario, allow two Republicans to advance to the November general election.

Republicans lead poll for California governor's race

Two Republicans top a recent survey of likely voters in California's race to succeed term-limited Governor Gavin Newsom, prompting Democratic leaders to warn of a potential lockout from the general election. The EVITARUS Research poll, conducted March 12-17 among 2,000 voters, shows Steve Hilton at 16% and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco at 14%. Democrats Eric Swalwell, Katie Porter and Tom Steyer trail tied at 10%.

USC cancels California governor debate over diversity concerns

March 24, 2026 Reported by AI

The University of Southern California canceled a planned gubernatorial primary debate hours before it was due to start on March 24, following criticism over the lack of racial diversity in its invited candidates. Lawmakers had demanded an expansion of the participant list, threatening a voter boycott if changes were not made. The decision leaves voters without the high-profile forum amid a crowded race to replace Governor Gavin Newsom.

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Trump endorses Steve Hilton in California governor's race

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President Donald Trump endorsed Republican Steve Hilton for California governor on Monday, consolidating GOP support amid a crowded primary field. A new poll shows Hilton tied with Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco at 14%, ahead of leading Democrats. The endorsement may prevent a potential Democratic lockout under the state's top-two primary system.

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Swalwell campaign denies online allegations of misconduct as California governor race intensifies

April 08, 2026 Reported by AI Fact checked

Rep. Eric Swalwell, a Democrat running for California governor, has denied an online allegation that interns were required to sign nondisclosure agreements to conceal inappropriate conduct. No accusers have publicly come forward, and major news outlets have not independently confirmed the claims.

May 04, 2026 22:24

California governor candidates clash over taxes and healthcare

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