California governor debate offers initial glimpse at the crowded field competing to succeed Gavin Newsom

California Gubernatorial Debate Spotlight

California’s bustling gubernatorial race takes the spotlight tonight as several prominent candidates vie to succeed Gov. Gavin Newsom in San Francisco.

For many voters, this debate, hosted by the Black Action Alliance at the Bayview Opera House and aired on FOX in both San Francisco and Los Angeles, will serve as an introduction to the candidates. Notably, San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan—who has had a rocky start to the race—has raised some eyebrows within the Democratic camp.

Seven candidates are confirmed for the debate, featuring seasoned Democrats like former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, former Secretary of State Betty Yee, and former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra. Others include Tony Thurmond, State Superintendent of Education; billionaire progressive Tom Steyer; and former Fox News host Steve Hilton, who represents the Republican perspective.

Notably absent are U.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell, ex-U.S. Rep. Katie Porter, and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco.

During the debate, candidates will be asked to present their solutions for pressing issues like the high cost of living, housing challenges, and the homelessness crisis. They will also likely address concerns regarding California’s vast size and purported wasteful spending.

Hilton raised a poignant question recently in an op-ed for the California Post: “Why do Californians pay the highest taxes in the country, yet end up with the worst outcomes?” He attributed the state’s struggles to what he calls an “explosion of bloated, bureaucratic government” resulting from years of Democratic leadership.

The Democratic candidates will need to navigate their positions carefully, especially considering the upcoming primary in June, as they strategize around Newsom’s departure at the end of his term. Newsom is viewed as a potential contender for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2028.

Mahan, a moderate Democrat who has often criticized Newsom’s approach, has also aimed criticisms at perceived waste and inefficiency in governance.

Recently, Newsom announced a $350 billion budget, which marks a $30 billion increase from the previous year. Yet, the state faces a projected deficit ranging between $3 billion and $18 billion, with many residents deeming state services inadequate.

Mahan expressed frustration with elected officials who defend the status quo. As he told the Wall Street Journal, “I don’t understand politicians who defend the status quo and pretend that government can’t be more efficient, more effective, and more technologically enabled.”