Newsom Neutral in CA Governor Race

0:00It's April 23, from coast to coast. This is US News Today, powered by AI. I'm Cory with the story. California's governor race is getting intense with term-limited governor Gavin Newsom staying neutral for now. He'll back whoever wins the Democrat slot from the June 2 primary, where the top two finishers advance to November party doesn't matter. Right now, polls have Republicans Steve Hilton and Chad Bianco in those top spots, putting pressure on Democrats to break through. Newsom shared that confidence Wednesday during a state park's announcement in Madera County. He praised the field of candidates with their strong records and said he's excited for voters to pick soon. The candidate lineup shifted fast this week. Former representative Eric Swalwell bowed out amid sexual assault allegations and Betty Yee quit Monday over weak fundraising and polls. That sets up tonight's first big debate in San Francisco with six contenders, including Democrats, Tom Steyer, Xavier Basera, Katie Porter, and Matt Mahan.

1:04Word as Newsom's team was lining up to support Swalwell before those claims hit, forcing a rethink. Meanwhile, Basera's surging organically among Democrats, grabbing momentum that analysts call a real wildcard for the primary push. As the debate kicks off in polls tighten, Newsom's hands off five keeps the focus on the voters, who will decide the path to November in just weeks.