CA Gov. candidates Becerra and Hilton set for Sept 30 CNN debate amid tightening polls.

In a lively debate at Pomona College, eight major candidates for California governor addressed key issues including high gas prices, housing costs, and homeowner insurance rates. Former Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, who gained momentum after Eric Swalwell dropped out, faced repeated attacks from Republican frontrunner Steve Hilton. Hilton criticized Becerra's proposal to declare a state of emergency over rising insurance rates, while Becerra defended his legal knowledge and took jabs at Hilton’s connection to former President Trump. Other candidates, including Chad Bianco, Tom Steyer, Katie Porter, Tony Thurmond, Matt Mahan, and Antonio Villaraigosa, discussed solutions ranging from capping gas prices and suspending the gas tax to providing down-payment assistance for first-time homeowners. Debate moderators highlighted climate-driven emergencies, prompting candidates to offer different strategies to handle wildfires and other disasters. Republicans largely blamed Democratic leadership for state problems, while Democrats criticized federal handling of health and environmental crises. The debate, broadcast statewide on CBS, comes just weeks before the June 2 primary, with polls showing Hilton leading at 16%, followed by Steyer at 15% and Becerra at 13%, while 26% of voters remain undecided. The chaotic exchange underscored the intense competition as candidates vie for attention and support ahead of the election.

ALT: a group of harry potter puppets on a stage

YouTube video by The Bitchuation Room (with Francesca Fiorentini)

YouTube video by The Rational National