Republican Gubernatorial Candidates for California Clash in Debate in Rancho Mirage

Republican gubernatorial candidates Chad Bianco and Steve Hilton took the stage for a debate Sunday evening at the Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa in Rancho Mirage, offering local voters a direct comparison of their visions for California’s future.

The debate, hosted by the Lincoln Club of the Coachella Valley, brought the two leading Republican candidates together to discuss some of the state’s most pressing challenges, including homelessness, immigration, state regulations, and the rising cost of living.

Both candidates addressed what they described as the need to restore the “California Dream,” though their approaches differed. Bianco emphasized reducing taxes, easing regulations, and lowering living costs as key steps toward economic recovery. Hilton, meanwhile, argued that the most critical factor is electing a Republican governor—regardless of who it is—adding that he would support Bianco if necessary to secure a GOP victory.

A central theme of the debate was electability in a predominantly Democratic state. Bianco pointed to his eight years as Riverside County Sheriff as evidence of his leadership experience and ability to govern effectively. Hilton countered that leadership in a single county does not necessarily translate to addressing the diverse needs of the entire state.

The candidates also highlighted their standing in early polling. In a recent UC Berkeley poll, Hilton currently holds a narrow lead with 17% voter support, followed closely by Bianco at 16%. Democratic contenders, including Katie Porter, Tom Steyer, and Eric Swalwell, trail behind the two Republican frontrunners.