During the lively 2026 California governor’s debate on Tuesday, Democratic frontrunner Xavier Becerra came under fire as his rivals targeted him over immigration, health care, and a financial scandal involving campaign advisors.
The two-hour broadcast, moderated by Kaitlan Collins, revealed a fragmented landscape as ballots begin to arrive. Polls indicate Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton are neck-and-neck at 18%, with other candidates like Chad Bianco and Tom Steyer trailing behind.
With Governor Gavin Newsom unable to run again, the stage became an arena for candidates to spar over critical issues like immigration, taxes, and growing controversies that reflect a fracturing party.
Becerra, the former Health Secretary under President Joe Biden, attempted to deflect criticism as he was repeatedly called out.
“It’s flattering to hear my name so often,” Becerra remarked, asserting, “Manipulating facts in this race is unacceptable, especially when it involves Trump’s distortions against opponents.”
His challengers probed into his management of unaccompanied minors at HHS, his policy stance on health care, and the indictment scandal where associates allegedly mishandled funds from his past campaign.
Although not accused of any wrongdoing, Becerra faced tough questions about his actions.
Former Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa questioned Becerra’s payment processes in light of the scandal, declaring, “It doesn’t pass the smell test.”
Health care emerged as a heated topic, with Becerra being accused of backtracking on single-payer health care—a cause celebre for many in the left.
“Those claims were false. I stand by Medicare for all,” Becerra insisted.
Porter was relentless in her pressure, questioning whether he would support a California state-run single-payer system.
“Covering everyone isn’t the same as supporting single-payer. You’re dodging the question,” Porter challenged.
Steyer also faced scrutiny, as his position changed from opposing to supporting a statewide plan, with estimates showing that implementing CalCare could cost around $731 billion by 2027.
This was painful to watch.
Democrat Katie Porter nearly BREAKS DOWN IN TEARS on the debate stage after CNN’s Kaitlan Collins confronts her with her own profanity-laced video of her berating a staffer.
Collins brought it up twice in just a few minutes. Brutal.
PORTER: “I have… pic.twitter.com/A3EFmw0RJZ
— Overton (@overton_news) May 6, 2026
Villaraigosa labeled the single-payer proposal as impractical, declaring it a “fantasy.” Hilton brought his experience from the U.K.’s health care system into the discussion, warning against government-run health care.
“It nearly cost me my life,” Hilton stated, emphasizing the disastrous outcomes associated with government oversight.
Early in the debate, Porter scolded her peers for their constant interruptions and disrespectful behavior.
“It’s shocking that anyone wants to criticize my approach given the lack of decorum here,” she remarked.
However, Collins later confronted Porter about a video where she berated a staff member, sparking considerable tension.
“I’ve taken responsibility for my actions multiple times,” Porter reiterated, attempting to clarify the situation.
This exchange highlighted the intertwining of personal conduct and political issues in what promises to be a contentious race.
Download the FREE Trending Politics App to get the latest news FIRST >>
