Leading California governor candidates spar in debate as topsy-turvy race heats up
Quick Insights
The Bottom Line
Six candidates for California governor debated issues like homelessness and cost of living in a wide-open race.
How This Affects You
Nearly a quarter of California voters remain undecided, meaning the next governor's policies on homelessness and cost of living are uncertain.
AI Summary
Six candidates for California governor debated issues like homelessness and the cost of living crisis, marking the first such event since Eric Swalwell's campaign ended due to sexual assault and misconduct allegations. The debate highlighted an unusually wide-open race to replace outgoing Governor Gavin Newsom, with no clear frontrunner emerging. Nearly a quarter of voters remain undecided ahead of the June 2 primary in the heavily Democratic state. This competitive field suggests a potentially unpredictable outcome for California's next gubernatorial election.
Source Coverage Map
8 of 43 tracked sources covered this story
Following this story?
Get notified when new coverage appears
Other Sources Covering This Story
5 sourcesMultiple outlets have reported on this story. Compare perspectives from different sources.

Xavier Becerra on California gubernatorial debate, lessons from Biden administration and more

California governor race odds swing wildly after snoozy debate - New York Post

California's woes at the center of debate among leading candidates for governor

Candidates for California Governor Debate: 5 Takeaways - The New York Times
This article is part of a story we're tracking:
Trump's Influence on US Politics and Foreign Policy
Former President Donald Trump continues to exert significant influence on US politics, from taunting foreign leaders and shaping primary elections to making controversial statements on immigration and foreign policy, including his stance on the ongoing Iran conflict.
Trump's Influence on US Politics and Elections
Former President Donald Trump continues to exert significant influence over US politics, from taunting political rivals and making policy demands to impacting primary elections and facing legal challenges. His statements and actions are shaping ongoing debates and future electoral contests.
Senator Thom Tillis's Criticism of Trump Administration Figures
Senator Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) has publicly expressed strong disapproval of certain Trump administration figures, calling for Stephen Miller's departure and stating that Republicans have 'lost the debate' on immigration. His comments highlight internal Republican tensions.
Trump's Legislative Demands and Political Stances
President Donald Trump has publicly stated he will not sign any new legislation until Congress passes the SAVE Act, a voter integrity bill. This stance highlights his continued focus on election security and his influence on the Republican agenda, even as his administration faces other challenges.
President Trump's Legislative Demands and Political Stances
President Donald Trump has declared he will not sign any further legislation until Congress passes the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act. This stance underscores his focus on voter integrity and reflects broader political tensions, including his dismissal of Iranian threats and his administration's impact on climate policy.
Trump's Demand for SAVE America Act and Legislative Standoff
President Donald Trump has declared he will not sign any new legislation until Congress passes the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) America Act, which mandates proof of citizenship for voting. This stance has created a legislative standoff, with calls for the bill to be prioritized.
Trump's Legislative Blockade and Voter ID Demands
President Donald Trump has declared he will not sign any legislation until Congress passes his proposed voter identification bill, the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act. This ultimatum aims to pressure Congress into overhauling voting laws, despite concerns from Democrats and a focus on other critical issues.
Trump Administration's Domestic Policies and Political Maneuvers
The Trump administration is implementing and proposing various domestic policies, including restoring gun rights for felons, restarting Global Entry, and facing scrutiny over DHS policies. These actions are occurring amidst political maneuvering for upcoming elections.
US Political Landscape: Trump's Influence and Key Elections
The US political scene is heavily influenced by former President Donald Trump, who continues to endorse candidates and shape party dynamics. Key primary races and special elections are underway, revealing shifts in voter sentiment and ongoing debates within both major parties.
Trump's Political Influence and 2025 Agenda
Former President Trump continues to exert significant influence over the Republican party and national politics, actively campaigning against GOP opponents, pushing for legislative changes like the SAVE America Act, and shaping the narrative around the economy and ongoing conflicts. His administration's past actions, such as the Global Entry program restoration and DOJ policies, are also under scrutiny.
Trump's Influence on Republican Primaries and Policy
Former President Donald Trump is actively engaging in Republican primary races, notably campaigning against incumbent GOP Representative Thomas Massie in Kentucky. He is also pushing for legislative changes like the SAVE America Act, though facing resistance from within his own party.
Trump Administration Policies and Political Maneuvering
The Trump administration is actively engaged in various policy initiatives and political battles. This includes efforts to influence elections, address economic concerns, and navigate internal party dynamics, while also facing scrutiny over actions related to immigration and AI technology.
Republicans Debate Strategy for SAVE America Act and Trump Endorsements
Republicans are grappling with internal divisions over legislative priorities, particularly the SAVE America Act, and the influence of former President Trump. Debates over the Senate filibuster and securing Trump's endorsement are shaping the party's direction ahead of midterms.
Trump's Influence on Republican Party and 2024 Elections
Former President Trump continues to exert significant influence over the Republican Party, impacting legislative priorities, endorsements, and internal party dynamics ahead of the 2024 elections. His calls for specific legislation and criticism of GOP members highlight ongoing divisions.
Trump Administration's SAVE America Act and Republican Divisions
President Trump is pushing for the 'SAVE America Act,' leading to significant legislative battles and exposing divisions within the Republican party. Trump's efforts to sway the 2020 election narrative and his criticism of GOP leaders who don't fully support his agenda are central to this developing story.
Trump's Influence on Republican Party and 2024 Election
Former President Donald Trump continues to exert significant influence over the Republican Party, impacting legislative efforts, primary challenges, and the national political discourse. His focus on the 2020 election and specific policy stances are shaping the GOP's agenda.
Trump's Push for SAVE America Act and Criticism of GOP Opponents
Former President Trump is pushing hard for the SAVE America Act, threatening to block legislation until it passes. He is also actively campaigning against Republican opponents, notably Rep. Thomas Massie, whom he has publicly criticized and sought to oust.
Trump's Influence on the Republican Party and Legislative Agenda
President Trump continues to exert significant influence over the Republican Party, pushing for his 'SAVE America Act' and publicly criticizing GOP members who don't align with his agenda. His actions are shaping legislative priorities and causing internal party conflicts.
Trump's Influence on Republican Politics and Endorsements
Former President Trump continues to exert significant influence over the Republican party, making endorsements, criticizing opponents, and pushing for specific legislation. His actions are shaping primary races and legislative priorities, often leading to internal party conflicts.
Trump's SAVE America Act Push and Political Influence
President Trump is pushing hard for the SAVE America Act, threatening to block legislation until it passes. He is also using his influence to endorse candidates and criticize opponents within the Republican party.
Trump's SAVE America Act and Election Integrity Push
President Trump is pushing for the passage of the SAVE America Act, stating he will not sign any other legislation until it is enacted. This initiative, focused on election integrity, is causing legislative blockades and political maneuvering within the Republican party.
Trump's Influence on Republican Party and Policy
Former President Trump continues to exert significant influence over the Republican Party, endorsing candidates, criticizing opponents, and pushing for specific legislative agendas. His actions are shaping primary races, trade policy, and legislative priorities within Congress.
Trump's Influence on Republican Politics and Endorsements
Former President Trump continues to exert significant influence over the Republican party, issuing endorsements, criticizing opponents, and leveraging his support to push legislative agendas, particularly impacting congressional races and policy debates.
Trump's Influence on Republican Primaries and Legislative Agenda
Former President Trump is actively shaping the Republican legislative agenda and primary races, notably endorsing candidates and campaigning against those who oppose him, such as Rep. Thomas Massie, while pushing for the 'SAVE America Act'.
Trump's Political Influence and Endorsements
Former President Trump continues to exert significant influence over the Republican party, issuing endorsements, criticizing opponents, and pushing his legislative agenda. His actions are shaping primary races and national policy debates, particularly regarding the 'SAVE Act' and trade.
Trump's Campaign Against Rep. Thomas Massie
President Trump has intensified his campaign to oust Republican Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky, publicly criticizing him and urging voters to replace him. This has led to significant spending by outside conservative groups to support Massie's opponent in the upcoming primary.
Trump's Influence on Republican Primaries and Policy
Former President Trump is actively shaping Republican primaries, particularly in Kentucky, by endorsing candidates and campaigning against incumbents. He is also exerting pressure on Congress regarding legislation and trade policy, threatening legislative blockades.
Trump's Influence on Republican Party and 2024 Election
Former President Donald Trump continues to exert significant influence over the Republican Party, endorsing candidates, criticizing opponents, and pushing legislative agendas. His actions are shaping primary races and national policy debates, particularly concerning election integrity and trade.
Trump's Anti-Massie Crusade in Kentucky
Former President Trump has escalated his public criticism of Kentucky Rep. Thomas Massie, urging voters to oust him in the upcoming primary. This 'anti-Massie crusade' has led to significant spending by conservative groups attempting to defeat the incumbent.
Trump's Political Influence and Endorsements
Former President Trump continues to exert significant influence within the Republican party, endorsing candidates and criticizing opponents. His actions are shaping primary races and legislative debates, particularly concerning the 'SAVE America Act'.
Trump's Influence on Republican Party and 2024 Election
Donald Trump continues to exert significant influence over the Republican Party, endorsing candidates and criticizing those who oppose him. His focus on the 'SAVE Act' and his stance on mail-in voting are shaping political discourse ahead of the 2024 elections.
Trump's Influence on Republican Politics and Endorsements
Former President Donald Trump continues to exert significant influence over the Republican party, making endorsements, criticizing opponents, and pushing his legislative agenda. His actions are shaping primary races and creating tensions within the party, particularly regarding the 'SAVE America Act' and his criticism of certain GOP members.
Trump's Influence on Republican Primaries and Internal Party Dynamics
Former President Trump continues to exert significant influence over the Republican party, actively endorsing candidates and campaigning against those he deems disloyal. His efforts include publicly criticizing and seeking to oust Rep. Thomas Massie in Kentucky and pressuring the Senate on legislative priorities like the SAVE Act.
Trump's Influence and Political Maneuvering
Donald Trump continues to exert significant influence over the Republican party and national politics, engaging in endorsements, criticisms, and policy demands. His actions include targeting political opponents, pushing for specific legislation like the SAVE Act, and facing accusations of 'racist hate speech' from a UN panel.
Trump's Influence on Republican Party and Legislative Agenda
Former President Trump continues to exert significant influence over the Republican party, endorsing candidates, criticizing opponents, and pushing for his legislative priorities like the SAVE Act. His actions are shaping primary races and creating tensions within the GOP.
Trump's Influence on Republican Politics and the SAVE Act
Former President Trump continues to exert significant influence over the Republican party, endorsing candidates and criticizing opponents. He is pushing for the passage of the 'SAVE America Act' and has threatened a legislative blockade until it is addressed, impacting various legislative efforts.
Trump's Political Influence and Endorsements
Donald Trump continues to exert significant influence over the Republican party, actively endorsing candidates and engaging in political feuds. His actions, from campaigning against specific GOP members to supporting new candidates, highlight his ongoing role in shaping the political landscape.
Trump's Easter Weekend Controversies
President Trump's Easter weekend was marked by a series of controversial posts and actions, including an expletive-laden threat against Iran. These statements drew widespread criticism and even prompted calls for the invocation of the 25th Amendment.
Trump's Endorsement of Steve Hilton in California Governor Race
Former President Donald Trump has officially endorsed Republican Steve Hilton, a former Fox News host, in the California gubernatorial race. This endorsement signals Trump's continued influence in state-level politics and support for conservative candidates.
Trump Endorses Steve Hilton in California Governor's Race
President Donald Trump has officially endorsed former Fox News host Steve Hilton in the California governor's race. This endorsement signals Trump's continued influence in state-level politics and could shape the dynamics of the Republican primary.
Steve Hilton Endorsed by Trump in California Governor's Race
Former President Donald Trump has officially endorsed Steve Hilton, a former Fox News host, in the California governor's race. This endorsement signals Trump's direct involvement in the state's political landscape.
Trump Endorses Steve Hilton for California Governor
Former President Donald Trump has officially endorsed ex-Fox News host Steve Hilton in the California gubernatorial race. This endorsement signals Trump's direct involvement in state-level politics and his support for Hilton's campaign.
Trump Endorses Steve Hilton in California Governor's Race
President Donald Trump has officially endorsed former Fox News host Steve Hilton in the California governor's race. This endorsement signals Trump's direct involvement and aims to reorder the wide-open race for the state's top executive position.
Trump Endorses Steve Hilton for California Governor
President Donald Trump has officially endorsed Steve Hilton, a former UK political aide and ex-Fox News host, for California governor. This endorsement reorders the wide-open race and signals Trump's direct involvement in the state's gubernatorial primary.
Trump Administration's Policies and Political Landscape
The Trump administration continues to face scrutiny over its policies, including efforts to support coal plants and a controversial settlement in a predatory lending case. Simultaneously, discussions about invoking the 25th Amendment and limiting the President's powers are gaining traction among Democrats, while some former allies express criticism.
Trump's Proposed 250-Foot Arch in Washington D.C.
Officials have released designs for a controversial 250-foot arch proposed for Washington, D.C., intended to celebrate America's 250th anniversary. The monument, championed by President Trump, would significantly dwarf the Lincoln Memorial and has generated debate over its scale and appropriateness.
Trump's Proposed 250-Foot Arch in Washington D.C.
Officials have released designs for a controversial 250-foot arch proposed for Washington D.C., intended to commemorate America's 250th anniversary. This massive structure, which would dwarf the Lincoln Memorial, is seen as President Trump's latest effort to leave a significant physical imprint on the capital.
Trump Administration's Proposed 'Arc de Trump'
The Trump administration has released designs for a controversial 250-foot 'Arc de Trump' to be built in Washington, D.C. This proposed triumphal arch, intended to celebrate America's 250th anniversary, has drawn criticism for its scale and association with the President.
Proposed 'Arc de Trump' in Washington D.C.
The Trump administration has released new designs for a controversial 'Arc de Trump,' a triumphal arch proposed for Washington D.C. The 250-foot structure, intended to celebrate America's 250th anniversary, has drawn criticism and attention for its scale and symbolism.
Trump's Proposed 'Triumphal Arch' in Washington D.C.
New renderings and designs have been released for President Donald Trump's proposed 250-foot-tall 'triumphal arch' near Arlington National Cemetery in Washington D.C. The controversial project, intended to celebrate America's 250th anniversary, features a gilded winged figure, eagles, and lions.
Designs Unveiled for Trump's Proposed 'Triumphal Arch' in Washington D.C.
New renderings and designs have been unveiled for President Donald Trump's proposed 250-foot 'triumphal arch' in Washington D.C. The monument, planned for Memorial Circle, features a golden-winged figure, eagles, and lions, sparking public discussion.
Proposals for a 'Triumphal Arch' Associated with Donald Trump
New renderings have been released for a proposed 'triumphal arch' associated with President Donald Trump, planned to be over twice the height of the Lincoln Memorial. This ambitious project has sparked discussion and controversy regarding its location and symbolism.
Proposed 'Arc de Trump' Monument Designs Unveiled
New renderings have been released for President Donald Trump's proposed 'Arc de Trump,' a triumphal arch envisioned to be over twice the height of the Lincoln Memorial. The designs for the 250-foot monument, planned for Washington D.C., have sparked public discussion and controversy.
Trump Administration Proposes 'Arc de Trump' Monument
The Trump administration has released new renderings for a proposed 250-foot-tall 'triumphal arch' in Washington, D.C., referred to as the 'Arc de Trump.' This ambitious project, planned to be located near Arlington, has generated public interest and discussion.
Proposed 'Arc de Trump' Monument in Washington, D.C.
New renderings and plans have been unveiled for President Donald Trump's proposed 'triumphal arch' in Washington, D.C. The monument, envisioned to be significantly taller than existing landmarks, has sparked discussion about its design, scale, and location near the Potomac River.
Proposed 'Arc de Trump' Monument in Washington D.C.
New renderings have been released for President Donald Trump's proposed 'triumphal arch' in Washington D.C. The monumental structure, planned to be 250 feet tall, has sparked public discussion about its design and location.
Trump's Planned Triumphal Arch and 'Jesus' Meme Controversy
The Trump administration has unveiled plans for a 250-foot 'Triumphal Arch' to commemorate the 250th anniversary of US independence. Separately, President Trump faced scrutiny for posting a 'Jesus' meme, which he discussed with an aide before posting.
Trump's Proposed Triumphal Arch in Washington D.C.
President Trump's plan to construct a 250-foot Triumphal Arch in Washington D.C. is moving forward after approval from the Commission of Fine Arts. The proposal has been met with both support from Trump appointees and public discussion.
Trump Administration's Actions and Political Landscape
The Trump administration is navigating various political and legal challenges, including leadership changes at key agencies, ongoing legal battles, and efforts to rally support. These actions are shaping the political landscape ahead of the midterms and influencing public perception.
AI & Technology
Following the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence and its impact on society, including regulation debates, workforce disruption, military applications, privacy concerns, and the race between tech giants and governments to shape AI's future.
Civil Rights & Justice
Following developments in civil rights, criminal justice reform, voting rights, Supreme Court decisions, policing accountability, and the ongoing struggle for equality and justice across American institutions.
Iran & Middle East Conflict
Tracking the evolving military and diplomatic situation across the Middle East, including US-Iran tensions, Israeli operations, proxy conflicts, and the broader geopolitical implications for the region.
California Governor's Race Heats Up After Swalwell's Exit
The California gubernatorial race is intensifying following Rep. Eric Swalwell's withdrawal. Multiple candidates participated in a debate, focusing on key issues like homelessness and the cost of living, as the field narrows and campaigning ramps up.
Should this be getting more attention?
You Might Have Missed
Related stories from different sources and perspectives
PoliticsBillionaire Steyer’s spending binge dwarfs rival campaigns in California governor’s race - AP News
<a href="https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMisgFBVV95cUxQckpTT1FyQWpQbGQ5dWd2S3RNUS0wUXkzSkRqMXpVbHJVSzA3S2xOQTg1WFl2azlZSTBhQ3pWdzdYcnFpTkhHMG9Ub1VmQ1lSbjFyN3hfRjVpM1g3SFNNYy1vaFdBY2VaWkxWS040MnRHWlVNVU1kM0F0b2lWZU16WjhGcm0yekw5SENkVUREUGFzYzlYcG9yWS1DN0dqSm5td2hSdnRRUmxFeG40OUZyem9B?oc=5" target="_blank">Billionaire Steyer’s spending binge dwarfs rival campaigns in California governor’s race</a> <font color="#6f6f6f">AP News</font>
PoliticsProgressive Group Founded by Bernie Sanders Endorses Billionaire for California Governor
With voters on the left split across a wide Democratic field, Our Revolution says it backed Tom Steyer to avoid handing the seat to a Republican. The post Progressive Group Founded by Bernie Sanders Endorses Billionaire for California Governor appeared first on The Intercept .
PoliticsPro-AI network Leading the Future wades into first set of state legislative races
The pro-artificial intelligence (AI) network Leading the Future, which has poured in millions of dollars for congressional primaries this year, is now setting its sights on state legislative races as it looks to shape policy at the local level. Leading the Future, a network of several pro-AI super PACs, announced on Thursday its first slate of state legislative endorsements, all of whom are…
PoliticsMore kids than ever are attending state-funded preschool, with California's surge leading the way - AP News
<a href="https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMilgFBVV95cUxOaHctbVV1ZmRJYkdCbVhpbGIxV1hncUlTa3BXZE5YQVRJOXZseVExc0FtaGlSRkkwRzBDdGlFZFczYXFKZFNHbXpycG4xZjE1TlJZMm1pUmZQeGlVUmNteWFqVkdlWTRlTUhYUUxsUzZVUW1uYm95Wm5NTi0wa1l6WjcxZzVESnJBTlp2V0hROVptak82V2c?oc=5" target="_blank">More kids than ever are attending state-funded preschool, with California's surge leading the way</a> <font color="#6f6f6f">AP News</font>
Politics3 political candidates bet on their own races, Kalshi says
Prediction market platform Kalshi announced that three politicians were suspended after reportedly betting on their own races. CBS News' Kelly O'Grady reports.
CorporateCalifornia coffee chain reinstates policy on Pride flags after swift backlash
<p>Petition started by workers gained more than 7,300 signatures after CEO said flags would be removed</p><p>A San Francisco-based coffee chain that <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/apr/10/california-coffee-shops-pride-flags-philz">sparked</a> backlash with a policy to remove Pride flags from their stores has reversed its decision over a week later.</p><p>“I made a mistake and I am sincerely sorry,” said Mahesh Sadarangani, the chief executive of Philz Coffee, in a statement on Friday. “The Pride flag is a symbol of safety and belonging for people who don’t always find that in the world, and that is not something I want to take away from anyone who walks into a Philz.”</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/apr/17/philz-coffee-pride-flags-california">Continue reading...</a>

Trump reclassifies state-licensed medical marijuana as less-dangerous drug
The order signed by Todd Blanche does not legalize marijuana for medical or recreational use under federal law. But it does change the way it's regulated.
Did this story change how you see things?
Stories like this only matter when people see them. Help us get verified journalism in front of more eyes.
The Verity Ledger curates verified investigative journalism from trusted sources only.
See our sourcesMost Read This Week
Report: Merck’s blockbuster cancer drug topped $200,000 a year under Trump

One in three Americans forced to make financial sacrifices for health coverage

Trump-branded data center project CEO departs

6 crew still missing after overturned ship that disappeared after typhoon is found near Saipan - AP News

US Live Nation and Ticketmaster verdict triggers calls for Australian investigation into ticketing rules


