California Gubernatorial Candidates Discuss Key Issues Ahead of 2026 Election

News Summary

At the California Business Outlook dinner, gubernatorial candidates addressed critical state issues including cost of living, healthcare, and homelessness. Six participants, including prominent figures, debated varying approaches to economic policy and the looming gubernatorial race, which might involve Vice President Kamala Harris. As the political landscape shifts, candidates gear up for the California Democratic primary slated for June 2026.

California gubernatorial candidates gathered at the California Business Outlook dinner on June 4, 2025, to discuss pressing state issues. Six candidates participated in the event, which was moderated by John Myers, CalChamber’s senior vice president of communications and external affairs.

The candidates included Toni Atkins, former Senate President Pro-Tem; Chad Bianco, Riverside Sheriff; Steve Hilton, author and podcaster; Lt. Governor Eleni Kounalakis; Katie Porter, former U.S. Representative; and Antonio Villaraigosa, former Mayor of Los Angeles. The event focused on various topics affecting California, including the cost of living, health care proposals, and homelessness, which are significant issues for voters ahead of the upcoming election.

In addition, the California Chamber of Commerce announced that Liz Snow has joined as the new Senior Vice President of Political Affairs. The organization is actively working to address regulatory challenges that affect businesses throughout the state. CalChamber has also named a new policy advocate to focus on health care and taxation issues.

During the panel discussion, candidates shared their views on misconceptions about workplace violence prevention standards, as well as the impact of COVID-19 school district closures. While four Democratic candidates concurred on the importance of addressing the cost of living, they agreed against raising the minimum wage, indicating a divergence of opinion on economic policy. Candidates also expressed their support for exploring a single-payer healthcare system, while varying stances emerged regarding the state’s homeless population and affordable housing.

The candidates debated the issues surrounding Proposition 36, which deals with repetitive thefts and the ongoing fentanyl crisis, further illustrating the complexities of California’s legislative challenges.

The upcoming gubernatorial race is also watching the possible candidacy of Vice President Kamala Harris, who has not yet declared intentions to run. Some Democratic insiders speculate her entry into the gubernatorial race could have implications affecting vulnerable Democrats in the state. Critics argue that her candidacy might boost Republican voter turnout, while supporters maintain that her experience positions her as a formidable candidate for governor.

Congressman Dave Min, who has been approached about his support for Harris’s potential candidacy, declined to comment on whether he would like her to run for governor. Another congressman, George Whitesides, expressed a more favorable view towards Harris, indicating an openness to her candidacy while remaining focused on his own electoral challenges. Harris has been cautious in considering her options, weighing a gubernatorial run against aspirations for a potential presidential bid in 2028.

Several former governors have provided Harris with advice on the responsibilities and expectations of the gubernatorial role. California Democrats are actively engaging in discussions around the possible consequences of her entering the race, acknowledging the potential impacts on both party dynamics and voter mobilization in upcoming elections.

As the political landscape evolves, the candidate field for the governorship may broaden with additional announcements expected in the coming months. California has not elected a Republican to statewide office since 2006, highlighting the current political dominance of the Democratic Party in the state.

Looking ahead, the California Democratic primary is scheduled for June 2026, where the top two candidates will advance to the general election. As the election cycle progresses, issues of economic growth, healthcare, and public safety will continue to shape the narratives and strategies of the candidates vying for California’s governorship.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• The New York Times: Harris and California’s Governor’s Race
• CNN: Kamala Harris and California’s Gubernatorial Debate
• Los Angeles Times: California Governor’s Race Candidates Debate
• Spectrum News: Eleni Kounalakis Withdraws from Governor’s Race
• Fresno Bee: Opinion on California’s Political Landscape
• Wikipedia: Kamala Harris
• Google Search: California Governor’s Race
• Google Scholar: California 2026 Gubernatorial Election
• Encyclopedia Britannica: California Gubernatorial Election
• Google News: California Governor Election 2026