Nine candidates vying to become the next governor of California have been invited to a gubernatorial debate at Pomona College Tuesday, April 28. To date, the debate is the most inclusive and has the largest number of confirmed participants on a live stage.
The candidates who confirmed their participation as of the morning of April 20: Xavier Becerra (D), Chad Bianco (R), Steve Hilton (R), Matt Mahan (D), Tom Steyer (D), Tony Thurmond (D), Antonio Villaraigosa (D) and Betty Yee (D). Since initially confirming her participation, Yee suspended her campaign on Monday, April 20. Katie Porter (D) had yet to accept her invitation as of Monday.
All candidates with active campaigns, who are listed on the ballot and had at least 1% support in both the Emerson College and LA Times/UC Berkeley polls, were invited to participate in the debate. Asian Pacific American Public Affairs (APAPA) ran the selection process, in partnership with CBS and Pomona College.
“Pomona College is honored to host the most inclusive debate in this year’s cycle thus far,” President G. Gabrielle Starr said. “Civic engagement and dialogue across differences are necessary for a thriving democracy—and core to the liberal arts tradition here at Pomona College.”
“There’s no better way for voters to inform themselves than by hearing from candidates directly,” Starr added, “and we’re thrilled that viewers will be able to draw from such a wide cross-section of perspectives.”
Scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m., the debate will be broadcast live from Pomona College’s historic Bridges Auditorium and air across CBS-owned California stations in Los Angeles (KCBS, KCAL), the Bay Area (KPIX), Sacramento (KOVR, KMAX), and affiliates in San Diego (KFMB), Bakersfield (KBAK) and Palm Springs (KPSP).
CBS will also stream the debate on its digital platforms including nationally, via CBS News 24/7.
“This debate extends far beyond a single stage, reaching communities across California with direct access to the candidates and their ideas,” said Scott Warren, regional president and general manager, CBS Bay Area and CBS Sacramento. “That kind of impact reflects the essential role local journalism plays in informing and engaging voters.”
The debate will be moderated by journalists with CBS Stations and Pomona Politics Professor Sara Sadhwani.
Candidates will participate in a structured format featuring opening statements, moderated discussion on such issues as the economy, public safety, housing and immigration, and closing remarks.
“This debate reflects APAPA’s commitment to expanding civic engagement and ensuring communities across California have direct access to the candidates shaping the future of our state,” said Sonny Mehrtash, APAPA national president. “By partnering with CBS Television Stations and Pomona College, we are creating a meaningful, nonpartisan platform that elevates dialogue, informs voters and helps strengthen the next generation of civic leadership.”
Additional information on the 2026 California Gubernatorial Debate can be found on Pomona College’s website.