California Governor’s Debate Canceled After Criticism Over Lack of Diversity
The New York Times • • nation
Key Points:
- The University of Southern California canceled a gubernatorial debate less than 24 hours before it was scheduled due to backlash over including only white candidates.
- USC and KABC, the broadcasting station, failed to agree on how to include more candidates, leading to the cancellation.
- The debate was set to feature six candidates, including Matt Mahan, whose inclusion sparked criticism as he and the other five participants were all white.
- Candidates of color excluded from the debate expressed concerns that their perspectives would not be represented in a minority-majority state like California.
- The controversy highlighted tensions in the crowded race to succeed term-limited Governor Gavin Newsom ahead of the June 2 primary.
