A Question That Reveals Priorities (Image Credits: Unsplash)
California – CBS News California correspondent Julie Watts challenged more than a dozen candidates for governor with a straightforward query on Governor Gavin Newsom’s tenure ahead of the June 2 primary.[1]
A Question That Reveals Priorities
Watts posed the same question to each contender: What has Newsom and the Legislature done well, and what would they do differently? The responses, captured in short videos, exposed sharp divides on issues like housing, homelessness and the economy.
This accountability series targeted the top-polling candidates in a crowded field seeking to succeed the term-limited Newsom. With the nonpartisan top-two primary looming, the interviews offered voters unfiltered insights into potential leaders.[1][2]
Democrats largely credited Newsom for economic strength and education efforts, while Republicans focused criticism on state governance failures. Common themes emerged around urgent crises driving residents away.
Republicans Surge in Polls Amid Democratic Split
Recent surveys show a tight contest, with Republicans gaining ground in the nation’s bluest state. A Public Policy Institute of California poll from early February placed two GOP hopefuls at the top.[3]
| Candidate | Party | Support |
|---|---|---|
| Steve Hilton | Republican | 14% |
| Katie Porter | Democrat | 13% |
| Chad Bianco | Republican | 12% |
| Eric Swalwell | Democrat | 11% |
| Tom Steyer | Democrat | 10% |
The poll surveyed over 1,600 adults and highlighted a statistical tie among these five, with high undecided voters.[3] Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco and commentator Steve Hilton lead despite Democratic dominance in registration.
GOP Candidates Deliver Blunt Assessments
Republican responses stood out for their severity. Chad Bianco credited Newsom with acting more conservatively during a presidential bid but drew a blank on legislative achievements.[1]
Steve Hilton agreed with Newsom on restricting smartphone use in schools but targeted soaring housing costs as the main exodus driver. Poultry executive Leo Zacky went further, stating leaders accomplished nothing worthwhile over seven years and faulting minimum wage hikes for fast-food workers.
- Bianco emphasized federal contrasts over state successes.
- Hilton prioritized resident retention through affordability.
- Zacky called for broad overhauls in business policies.
Democrats Offer Praise Tempered by Critiques
Leading Democrats balanced commendations with calls for change. Former U.S. Rep. Katie Porter highlighted free school lunches under the universal meals program while pledging faster housing cost reductions.
Congressman Eric Swalwell described Newsom as a shield against federal overreach and advocated revenue diversification. San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan centered both answers on homelessness solutions.
- Xavier Becerra lauded economic growth and defended redistricting necessities, urging quicker action on high-speed rail.
- Antonio Villaraigosa criticized prolonged COVID school closures but praised health and child care advances.
- Tony Thurmond noted education investments and pushed for insurance reforms plus more affordable units.
Green Party’s Butch Ware questioned responses to immigration raids and homelessness.[1]
Key Takeaways
- Housing and homelessness dominate as shared priorities across parties.
- Republicans lead polls due to Democratic field fragmentation.
- Full interviews available via CBS News California.[1]
As the March filing deadline passes and endorsements shift, like recent dropout Ian Calderon’s backing of Swalwell, the race remains fluid.[2] Voters face a pivotal choice between continuity and overhaul. What do you think about these candidates’ takes? Tell us in the comments.
