California’s Governor Candidates to Meet in First Major Debate After Swalwell
The New York Times • • general
Key Points:
- California’s gubernatorial candidates will participate in their first televised debate since Eric Swalwell’s withdrawal, aiming to gain momentum in a closely contested race.
- The debate, hosted by KRON4 in San Francisco, features four Democrats and two Republicans who are tightly clustered in recent polls with many voters still undecided ahead of the June 2 primary.
- Swalwell, once a Democratic front-runner, exited the race following sexual assault allegations reported on April 10, reshaping the dynamics of the contest.
- Candidates are expected to take more risks during this debate to distinguish themselves in a crowded and fragmented field, according to political analyst Sara Sadhwani.
- Democrat Xavier Becerra has seen a notable rise in polling support since Swalwell’s departure, positioning him as a key contender in the race.
