Governor Debate: Top Contenders Clash in SF

0:00It's April 22nd. This is California News Today, powered by AI. I'm Cory with the story. Tonight's Governor's debate in San Francisco is the first big clash since Eric Swalwell dropped out over sexual assault claims. With the June 2nd primary just weeks away, California's top two system means the top two vote-gitters advance, no matter their party. On stage, you'll see Republican Steve Hilton and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco facing off against Democrats, Katie Porter, Tom Steyer, Xavier, Basera, and San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan. Recent polls from the California Democratic Party show a tight race. Hilton leads at 17 percent, with Bianco and both Basera and Steyer right behind at 14 percent each. Basera's numbers are climbing after starting in single digits, shaking up the Democratic pack. Voters are finally tuning in, according to experts. This site is dropped from 23 percent to 20 percent, and folks are locking in choices as the field stays crowded.

1:01Party leaders worry, too many Democrats could split the vote. Earlier this week, Betty Yee bowed out and threw her support to Steyer. Meanwhile, Basera scored a big endorsement from assembly speaker Robert Rebus, boosting his momentum heading into the debate. Tune in at 7pm, on K-RON-4 and other next star stations statewide. Ellen Ballot hit homes in about two weeks, so this faceoff could lock in the leaders before vote start flying.