California Governor Debate: Who’s Stepping Into the Spotlight?

The California governor race has shifted dramatically after Democratic front‑runner Eric Swalwell dropped out amid sexual misconduct claims. Governor Gavin Newsom stayed neutral before the debate but hinted that a Democrat is likely to win, even though polls show Republican challengers gaining traction. Four Democrats and two Republicans will confront pressing issues such as housing costs, homelessness, and the growing outflow of residents and businesses. The lineup tonight includes former Fox News host Steve Hilton, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, ex‑Health Secretary Xavier Becerra, billionaire Tom Steyer, former congresswoman Katie Porter, and San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan. Hilton has consistently topped polls among Republicans, aiming to be the state’s first GOP governor since Arnold Schwarzenegger. Bianco follows closely; he recently seized 650, 000 ballots in a probe into the November election after an independent group alleged excess votes.On the Democratic side, Becerra has risen in popularity after Swalwell’s exit. He previously served as California Attorney General and state assemblyman. Steyer, once the second‑most popular Democrat, has struggled to capitalize on his wealth and past business controversies. Porter’s campaign suffered early setbacks when footage of her confronting staff surfaced, keeping her polls low. Mahan, a Silicon Valley favorite and Newsom critic, trails behind the rest of the field. The debate will air at KRON4’s San Francisco studio at 7 p. m. , and six Nexstar stations across California will broadcast it: KRON4, KTLA, KSWB/KUSI, KTXL, and KGET. Viewers can also stream the event on KRON4. com, KTLA. com, KTLA’s YouTube channel, and its Facebook page.