California Governor’s Race Heats Up: Debate Set for March 24th
The race for California Governor in 2026 is gaining momentum, with a crucial debate scheduled for March 24th. Hosted by N+ Univision 34 Los Angeles, ABC7 (KABC-TV) Los Angeles and the USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future, the debate – titled “Su Voz, Su Voto: Carrera por el Gobernador 2026” – will feature six candidates vying for the state’s top office.
Who Will Be on Stage?
The candidates confirmed to participate represent both major parties. On the Republican side, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco will be present, alongside Steve Hilton, a Fox News contributor and former advisor to a British Prime Minister. Representing the Democrats are Matt Mahan, the mayor of San José; Katie Porter, a former U.S. Representative; Eric Swalwell, a current U.S. Representative; and Tom Steyer, an entrepreneur and former presidential candidate.
How to Watch and Listen
The debate will be broadcast live from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. Pacific Time. Spanish-language coverage will be available on Univision34.com and N+ Univision 24/7 Los Ángeles on ViX, with a televised broadcast at 7:00 p.m. On Univision 34/KMEX Los Ángeles and other TelevisaUnivision affiliates throughout California. English-language viewers can tune in to ABC7/KABC-TV Los Angeles, ABC7/KGO-TV San Francisco, and ABC30/KFSN-TV Fresno, both online and on television, with an extended broadcast from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Key Media Personnel
Gabriela Teissier, a news anchor for N+ Univision 34 Los Angeles, will serve as a panelist, posing questions to the candidates. Marc Brown, an anchor for ABC7 Los Angeles Eyewitness News, will moderate the discussion, supported by Monica Madden, a political reporter from ABC7 San Francisco News, and Warren Armstrong, a news presenter from ABC30 Fresno Action News Live.
Election Timeline
California’s primary election is set for June 2nd, with the general election following on November 3rd. The debate offers voters a critical opportunity to assess the candidates’ platforms and visions for the state.
Fair Candidate Selection Process
The selection of candidates for participation was based on independent and objective criteria developed by USC professor Christian Grose and the USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future’s Fair Elections and Democracy Lab.
The Rise of Sheriff Bianco: A Potential Shift in California Politics
Chad Bianco’s candidacy is particularly noteworthy. As the current Sheriff of Riverside County, he brings a law enforcement perspective to the race. Web search results indicate he is currently leading in polls among Republican candidates. His campaign focuses on public safety and addressing concerns about crime, resonating with voters who sense Sacramento is out of touch with their needs.
What’s at Stake in the 2026 California Gubernatorial Election?
California faces significant challenges, including housing affordability, climate change, and economic inequality. The candidates will likely address these issues during the debate, outlining their proposed solutions. The outcome of the election could have a profound impact on the state’s future direction.
Did you grasp?
The 2026 election will be the first California gubernatorial election held in a year that does not coincide with a presidential election since 1998.
FAQ
Q: When is the California gubernatorial debate?
A: March 24th, from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. Pacific Time.
Q: Where can I watch the debate?
A: On Univision34.com, N+ Univision 24/7 Los Ángeles on ViX, Univision 34/KMEX Los Ángeles, ABC7/KABC-TV Los Angeles, ABC7/KGO-TV San Francisco, and ABC30/KFSN-TV Fresno.
Q: Who are the candidates participating in the debate?
A: Chad Bianco, Steve Hilton, Matt Mahan, Katie Porter, Eric Swalwell, and Tom Steyer.
Q: When are the California primary and general elections?
A: June 2nd and November 3rd, respectively.
Q: How were the debate participants selected?
A: Based on criteria developed by USC professor Christian Grose and the USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future’s Fair Elections and Democracy Lab.
Pro Tip: Stay informed about the candidates’ positions on key issues by visiting their official campaign websites. Chad Bianco’s campaign website is a good starting point.
Stay tuned for further coverage of the California gubernatorial race as we approach the primary election.
Related reading