Local & Community
California governor debate lineup set: Bianco, Porter, Becerra among six candidates
The lineup is now set for next week’s “Inside California Politics” gubernatorial debate, airing right here on NBC Palm Springs.
The field was finalized after Congressman Eric Swalwell suspended his campaign, prompting Nexstar Media Group to conduct a new poll in partnership with Emerson College Polling to determine which candidates qualified.
Based on those results, six candidates—two Republicans and four Democrats—met the criteria to take the debate stage.
On the Republican side, former Fox News commentator Steve Hilton leads the field, followed by Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco.
Among Democrats, the lineup includes billionaire activist Tom Steyer, former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, former Congresswoman Katie Porter, and San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan.
The debate is expected to focus on key issues facing California, including the economy, public safety, housing, and the state’s future direction.
Voters will get a chance to hear directly from the candidates as they make their case ahead of the upcoming election.
The debate airs next week at 7 p.m. on NBC Palm Springs.
Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.
By: NBC Palm Springs
April 17, 2026
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