California’s unsettled race for governor entered a more confrontational phase on Tuesday as eight candidates shared the stage in a wide-ranging debate that exposed deep divisions over affordability, healthcare, climate policy and executive leadership.
The 90-minute debate, hosted by CBS News affiliates in Claremont, came amid growing volatility in the field following the recent withdrawal of Eric Swalwell. With no clear front-runner, candidates used the forum to draw sharper contrasts and appeal to voters increasingly concerned about the state’s cost of living and public services.
Former US Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra entered the debate with notable momentum, buoyed by improved polling, increased fundraising and a rising number of endorsements. That trajectory, however, also placed him at the center of sustained criticism from both Democratic and Republican rivals.
Healthcare Record Comes Under Scrutiny
Healthcare quickly emerged as one of the debate’s most contentious issues. Becerra highlighted his experience overseeing large-scale health systems at both the federal and state levels, presenting himself as the most administratively tested candidate in the race.
Republican contender Steve Hilton challenged that record, arguing that Democratic leadership had failed to control costs or improve access. Becerra countered by accusing Hilton of aligning with former President Donald Trump on policies that could weaken public healthcare programs, sparking one of several direct exchanges between the two.
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San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan also took aim at Becerra, portraying him as a defender of existing systems rather than an agent of reform.
Mahan sought to position himself as a pragmatic moderate, criticizing California’s gas tax as disproportionately burdensome on working-class and rural residents and warning that proposals such as single-payer healthcare lack a viable funding model.
Climate Accountability Divides Democratic Contenders
Climate policy produced one of the sharpest intraparty confrontations of the evening. Former congresswoman Katie Porter questioned the credibility of billionaire investor Tom Steyer, citing his previous financial ties to fossil fuel companies.
As Steyer called for California to pursue legal action against energy firms over climate-related damage, Porter argued that those who profited from the industry should bear financial responsibility for environmental and wildfire losses. Steyer defended his record by emphasizing his current opposition to oil and gas interests and portraying himself as a disruptive force in state politics.
No Clear Leader in a Fragmented Field
The debate also featured Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, California Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, and former Los Angeles mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, each stressing experience in public safety, education or executive governance.
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While Becerra remains one of the most visible contenders, the exchange underscored the absence of a dominant candidate capable of unifying the electorate. With another high-profile debate scheduled in the coming days, the contest for California’s top office appears likely to grow more polarized as candidates vie for definition and momentum.
