Six Candidates Set for California Governor's Debate Next Week

Apr 18, 2026, 2:45 AM

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A significant debate for the California governor's race is slated for next week, with six candidates confirmed to participate. The event, organized by the Black Action Alliance in conjunction with KTVU FOX 2 and KTTV FOX 11, will be held at the Ruth Williams Bay View Opera House in San Francisco on Tuesday at 5:30 pm.

The confirmed candidates include:.

Xavier Becerra: Former US Secretary of Health and Human Services and California Attorney General.

Tony Thurmond: Current State Superintendent of Public Instruction.

Antonio Villaraigosa: Former Mayor of Los Angeles and former Speaker of the State Assembly.

Betty Yee: Former California State Controller.

Steve Hilton: Political commentator and former adviser to the British Prime Minister.

Tom Steyer: Billionaire businessman and former presidential candidate.

Notably absent from the debate will be US Representatives Eric Swalwell and Katie Porter, as well as Republican Chad Bianco, all of whom cited scheduling conflicts as the reason for their absence .

The debate is expected to be a crucial moment in the race, particularly as voters navigate a crowded field of candidates. Discussion topics will likely include pressing issues such as housing affordability, healthcare, and economic opportunity, which resonate deeply with California voters .

Moderators for the event will be KTVU political reporter Greg Lee, KTVU anchor Andre Senior, and KTTV FOX 11 anchor Marla Tellez. They will facilitate questions drawn from the public, community leaders, and journalists, aiming to provide a comprehensive platform for candidates to differentiate themselves in a highly competitive environment .

The stakes are high as this debate comes just months before the California gubernatorial primary election, scheduled for June 2, 2026. With the potential for a Republican candidate to advance alongside a Democrat, the dynamics of the race are becoming increasingly critical to understand for both candidates and voters alike .

As the election approaches, political analysts suggest that a fragmented Democratic vote could favor Republican candidates, who may consolidate support more effectively within their base. This risks a November election featuring two Republican candidates, a scenario that has caused concern among Democratic leaders who are urging candidates without a viable path to victory to consider withdrawing from the race .

Overall, the upcoming debate represents a pivotal opportunity for candidates to address voter concerns directly and clarify their positions on key issues affecting California's future. The event will be live-streamed across various platforms, allowing for broader access to viewers across the state .

As California continues to grapple with challenges related to healthcare, housing, and economic disparity, the candidates' responses in the debate could significantly influence public perception and voter preferences leading into the primary election. The political landscape in California remains dynamic, and candidates will need to articulate compelling visions for the state's future to gain voter support in the coming months.

This debate not only serves as a forum for candidates but also reflects the diverse voices and perspectives of California's electorate, making it a vital part of the democratic process in the state.

Candidates will face an audience of about 240 people, with additional viewers accommodated in an overflow space, ensuring that community engagement remains at the forefront of the discussion .

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