Democratic Candidates Fire at Steyer and Becerra in Turbulent California Governor Debate
Six leading Democratic contenders for California governor squared off Tuesday night in a chaotic and combative debate at Pomona College, sharply targeting billionaire frontrunner Tom Steyer’s fossil fuel investments and Xavier Becerra’s policy record less than a week before ballots begin mailing to voters.
The widely watched CBS debate offered no clear breakout moment for any candidate, underscoring the unpredictability of a race where two Republican contenders currently lead in polls. Former Orange County Rep. Katie Porter likened the event to handling “my teenagers at dinner,” capturing the discord on stage.
Steyer Faces Fierce Backlash Over Fossil Fuel Past
Porter led the charge against Steyer, who has invested more than $132 million of his own money into the race and secured support from many progressive activists. She challenged his environmental credentials by spotlighting his past investments in fossil fuels, questioning his pledge to “make polluters pay” with a sharp retort: “How about profiteers pay?”
Steyer has defended his record, emphasizing that he has since divested from fossil fuels and committed himself to tackling climate change. However, his opponents seized on the contradiction, aiming to weaken his left-wing support.
Becerra Faces Scrutiny on Policy Details and Immigration Record
Meanwhile, former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra — bolstered by a recent surge in polls and fundraising fueled by an army of online influencers — came under fire from moderate Democrat San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan. Mahan criticized Becerra’s mixed official record and pressed him for specifics, with Becerra visibly rattled when pressed about his plan to freeze home insurance rates.
Progressives and Steyer’s camp also spotlighted Becerra’s past corporate support, including backing from Chevron, and his controversial handling of an influx of unaccompanied migrant children during his time in the Biden administration.
“We did everything we could,” Becerra stated, dismissing child labor allegations as a “MAGA talking point” while shifting responsibility to the Department of Homeland Security.
Republicans and Policy Conflicts Highlight Debate Turmoil
Republican candidate Chad Bianco, Riverside County sheriff known for provocative claims, aggressively attacked Democratic policies and made false statements about COVID-19 vaccines, drawing audible groans from the audience. He also incited controversy over his recent seizure of 650,000 ballots in Riverside County, prompting Public Instruction Superintendent Tony Thurmond to condemn his actions.
The debate revealed scant policy differentiation among Democrats on crucial issues including housing, health care, and energy. Candidates mostly avoided direct criticism of current Gov. Gavin Newsom’s liberal policies, despite escalating concerns over California’s crushing cost of living.
Key Divisions: Gas Tax and Energy Strategies
On state gas taxes, moderates like Mahan and Thurmond sided with Republicans Bianco and Steve Hilton in calling for a suspension amid soaring prices, while progressive candidates Porter, Steyer, and Villaraigosa opposed such moves.
Energy policy drew similar splits: Porter, Mahan, and Villaraigosa advocated keeping oil refineries open while accelerating electrification, whereas Steyer pushed for higher taxes on oil industry profits. Hilton, leading Republican polls, dodged specifics on clean energy goals.
Young Voters Left Confused, Urging More Clarity
After the debate, Pomona College politics student Kloi Ogans voiced her frustration: “I think I’m more confused on who to vote for now than ever,” she said, citing the relentless sparring that made it hard to engage with candidates like Becerra and Porter, whom she hoped to hear from on housing and immigration.
With less than a week until ballots are mailed, California voters face mounting uncertainty as candidates clash over the state’s future amid a fractured and heated campaign.
The Nevada Voice will continue tracking this dynamic race as it unfolds.
