CA, US & World
CNN to Host California Governor Primary Debate May 5 Ahead of June Election
CNN is set to host a high-stakes California gubernatorial primary debate on May 5, offering voters a closer look at candidates in one of the most crowded races in recent state history.
The two-hour debate will take place in the Los Angeles area and comes just weeks before the June 2 primary election. It will be moderated by CNN anchors Elex Michaelson and Kaitlan Collins.
To qualify, candidates must meet specific polling and fundraising thresholds, including at least 3% support in qualifying polls and raising or contributing at least $1 million to their campaign.
So far, eight candidates have met those requirements — including six Democrats and two Republicans.
On the Republican side, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco and former Fox News host Steve Hilton have qualified. Democrats in the debate include Xavier Becerra, Matt Mahan, Katie Porter, Tom Steyer, Eric Swalwell, and Antonio Villaraigosa.
The debate comes at a critical moment in the race, as concerns grow that a crowded Democratic field could split the vote. Because California uses a nonpartisan primary system, the top two vote-getters — regardless of party — advance to the general election.
That dynamic has raised the possibility that two Republican candidates could move forward if Democratic support is divided.
The eligibility window for candidates to qualify closes April 27, with the debate expected to play a key role in shaping voter decisions ahead of the primary.
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By: NBC Palm Springs
April 6, 2026
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