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Governor and LA Mayor Hopefuls Face Off in a Week of Fiery Debates

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California gubernatorial candidates former U.S. Rep. Katie Porter, businessman Tom Steyer, businessman Steve Hilton, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra, San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan look on during a CNN California Governor Primary Debate at East Los Angeles College on May 05, 2026 in Monterey Park, California.  (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

Ballots have arrived and voters are now weighing their options in the races for California governor and Los Angeles mayor.

After two spirited and fiery debates this week, the gubernatorial candidates have given voters no shortage of material to think about as they decide who will replace Governor Gavin Newsom. Scott, Marisa and Guy discuss how the Democratic and Republican contenders are making their case to voters.

Meanwhile in Los Angeles, the three leading mayoral candidates faced off in their first televised debate this week. The field includes embattled incumbent Karen Bass, Republican reality TV star Spencer Pratt who lost his home in the Palisades fire and progressive L.A. City Council member Nithya Raman.

For more information on the races and ballot measures in California’s June 2 primary election, check out KQED’s Voter Guide.

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