Top candidates face off in the CBS California Governor's Debate

7:57 PM / April 28, 2026 Hilton, Steyer lead California gubernatorial hopefuls in CBS News poll of likely voters A new CBS News poll released Monday shows the California governor's race remains a tight contest ahead of the June 2 primary election. Republican Steve Hilton leads among likely voters with 16% support. He maintains a narrow cushion over Democrats Tom Steyer (15%) and Xavier Becerra (13%), with Republican Chad Bianco the choice for 10% of likely voters polled. Other candidates making their case on Tuesday include Democrats Katie Porter (9%), Matt Mahan (4%), Antonio Villaraigosa (4%) and Tony Thurmond (1%). A significant number of likely voters polled — 26% — say they're still undecided. The CBS News poll also provides insight into what voters are looking for in the gubernatorial hopefuls. Many voters say the state's cost of living has become unmanageable, with the so-called "California Dream" feeling out of reach. Democrats polled largely are looking for candidates aligned with current state policies and opposed to those of President Trump. Republicans largely prioritize change and have a negative view of the state, with 76% saying the state's economy is in bad condition.