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California gubernatorial frontrunners clash in televised debate as early voting begins

politicsMay 6, 202634159

CNN hosted the first nationally televised debate in the 2026 California gubernatorial race Tuesday night, featuring seven leading candidates as early voting ramps up with less than a month before the primary. Moderator Kaitlan Collins asked whether candidates would put former South Dakota governor Kristi Noem in prison, producing a heated onstage exchange that underscored the night’s personal attacks. Candidates traded barbs over campaign spending and immigration, with Tom Steyer’s self-funding and promises on climate and healthcare taking center stage while few offered detailed fixes for Hollywood’s production crisis. The showdown matters because a crowded field of more than 60 contenders makes televised performances and early-vote momentum critical for WHO breaks out before the primary.

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