California Gubernatorial Debate Highlights Partisan Divides Ahead of Upcoming Primary

Thu Apr 23 2026 11:48:54 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Candidates clash over key issues like homelessness, taxes, and social media policies in the first major debate for California's governorship.

A pivotal debate among six candidates vying for the California governorship revealed stark partisan divides on pressing topics such as homelessness and taxation. This first-of-its-kind televised event showcased two leading Republicans and four prominent Democrats, all striving to stand out in a crowded race without a clear frontrunner.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — The first televised debate among California’s gubernatorial candidates has laid bare the deep partisan divides on critical issues such as homelessness, taxes, and social media regulations. The debate featured six candidates, including leading Republicans Steve Hilton and Chad Bianco, and Democrats like U.S. Rep. Katie Porter and billionaire Tom Steyer.

This election marks a unique opportunity for California as there is no incumbent governor running, leading to a wide-open race expected to culminate in the June 2 primary. The televised debate showcased a more civil discourse among candidates, reflecting their desire to make a positive impression on voters.

Over a span of 90 minutes, candidates hotly debated their strategies for dealing with California’s homelessness crisis, with Democrats defending recent efforts made by outgoing Governor Gavin Newsom, characterized by Republicans as ineffective. Everything has taken us in the wrong direction, Hilton asserted. Bianco referred to the state’s efforts as a dismal failure. Meanwhile, Steyer admonished former President Trump for exacerbating California's problems, stating, Donald Trump is trying to punish California every way he can.

Social media use among children also became a contentious topic, with candidates differing on whether to support banning access for those under 16. Former Biden administration Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra agreed with Steyer on a ban, while Porter expressed more flexibility with parental involvement driving the decision.

Steyer, who has outspent his opponents significantly, faced repeated scrutiny regarding his wealth and past business dealings. Responding to criticisms, he highlighted his involvement in low-income housing efforts. I’m the billionaire who wants to tax other billionaires, he emphasized.

As California prepares for its primary elections, this debate highlights the uncertain dynamics of the race, with one prominent Democratic contender, Rep. Eric Swalwell, recently exiting following sexual misconduct allegations. The results of this election could significantly reshape California’s political landscape.