Tom Steyer draws scrutiny after California debate appearance

At the April 22 California gubernatorial debate in Los Angeles, Democratic candidates Tom Steyer and Xavier Becerra sparred onstage after Eric Swalwell withdrew from the race, and moderators pressed Steyer on his investments and record. Steyer, who has injected substantial personal funds into his campaign, was challenged by opponents about investments and outside spending they cited as conflicting with his progressive positions. Those attacks matter because Steyer’s financial record and heavy spending could undercut support among progressive voters and reshape who leads the Democratic field in California.