California Gubernatorial Candidates Debate Key Issues Ahead of June Primary

Seven candidates vying to become the next governor of California met in San Francisco Thursday night for a 90-minute debate that could prove decisive for undecided voters. The event, co-organized by CBS News California and the San Francisco Examiner, took place just weeks before the June 2nd primary election.

The stage featured a diverse field of candidates, including former U.S. Health Secretary Xavier Becerra, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, political commentator Steve Hilton, San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan, former Congresswoman Katie Porter, billionaire activist Tom Steyer, and former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. Moderators pressed the group on the state's most pressing challenges, specifically focusing on the housing affordability crisis, public safety concerns, climate change initiatives, education funding, and healthcare access.

The debate occurred amid a tightening race. A new poll released by Emerson College just one day prior shows Xavier Becerra holding a narrow lead with 19 percent support. He is closely followed by Steve Hilton and Tom Steyer, who are currently tied for second place at 17 percent. Other candidates in the double digits include Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco at 11 percent and Katie Porter at 10 percent. San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan and former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa rounded out the poll at 8 percent and 4 percent, respectively.

With the primary election scheduled for June 2nd, the candidates are making their final pushes to secure one of the top two spots. Under California’s primary system, the two highest vote-getters, regardless of party affiliation, will advance to face each other in the general election this November.

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