The debate, "Your Voice, Your Vote: Race for Governor 2026," will be presented by ABC7 Los Angeles, ABC7 San Francisco, ABC30 Central California, Noticiero N+ Univision 34 Los Angeles, and the USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future.
It will take place Tuesday, March 24, at 5 p.m.
ABC7 Los Angeles anchor Marc Brown will moderate the debate. He will be joined by panelists Monica Madden, political reporter for ABC7 San Francisco; Warren Armstrong, anchor at ABC30 Central California; and Gabriela Teissier, anchor for Noticiero N+ Univision 34 Los Angeles.
The six candidates participating in the debate are:
- Chad Bianco (R), Riverside County sheriff
- Steve Hilton (R), Fox News contributor and former adviser to British Prime Minister David Cameron
- Matt Mahan (D), mayor of San Jose
- Katie Porter (D), former U.S. representative for California's 47th Congressional District
- Tom Steyer (D), entrepreneur and former presidential candidate
- Eric Swalwell (D), U.S. representative for California's 14th Congressional District.
Candidates were invited based on independent, objective criteria developed by USC Professor Christian Grose and the USC Democracy and Fair Elections Lab, at the request of the USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future.
The debate will focus on key issues shaping the race as voters prepare for the June 2 primary election. The general election is scheduled for Nov. 3.
Viewers can watch the debate live on ABC30 or stream it live on the ABC30 Central California app.