Prose
LOS ANGELES — Six candidates for California’s governor seat appeared on a televised stage on April 22, 2026, to address a state grappling with homelessness, housing costs and a looming primary that could produce an unprecedented two‑Republican runoff. The debate, hosted by Nexstar Media Group and streamed on The Hill, featured the two leading Republicans—conservative commentator Steve Hilton and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco—alongside four Democrats: former U.S. Rep. Katie Porter, billionaire activist Tom Steyer, San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan and former HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra.
Homelessness dominated the discussion. Bianco called the state’s record on the issue a “dismal failure,” while Hilton warned, “Everything has taken us in the wrong direction.” Democrats pointed to Governor Gavin Newsom’s efforts, arguing that the crisis requires more resources rather than blame.
The panel also tackled whether California should ban social‑media use for minors. Steyer and Becerra said they support a ban for children under 16. Hilton argued for a social norm that keeps smartphones away from that age group. Porter rejected a blanket ban, noting her teenage children use social media differently, while Bianco and Mahan said the choice should rest with parents—Mahan adding that schools should prohibit phones for kids under 16.
Steyer’s wealth sparked repeated attacks. Matt Mahan remarked, “The only housing Tom Steyer’s built has been private prisons and ICE detention centers.” In response, Steyer emphasized that he and his wife have financed thousands of low‑income housing units and highlighted his campaign’s goal to tax other billionaires, break up electric‑utility monopolies and make polluters pay. He summed up his stance, “I’m the billionaire who wants to tax other billionaires.” He also noted that major corporations, including utility companies, are spending millions against him.
California’s unique top‑two primary rules added tension to the debate. All six candidates appeared together because the state places every candidate on the same ballot, regardless of party, with the two front‑runners advancing to the November general election. Democrats warned that a crowded field could allow two Republicans to move forward—a “historic calamity” for the party. The concern grew after Rep. Eric Swalwell exited the race amid sexual‑assault allegations he denies, prompting late entries by Becerra and Mahan. Becerra declined to speak with reporters after the debate.
The debate concluded without major interruptions, as candidates largely allowed each other to speak. The evening’s exchange highlighted deep partisan fissures and underscored how California’s structural challenges—housing, homelessness, and an unusual primary system—are shaping a tightly contested governor’s race.