California Governor Debate
FILE - California gubernatorial candidate Antonio Villaraigosa speaks at the 2026 California Democratic Party State Convention in San Francisco, Feb. 21, 2026.
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The University of Southern California has canceled a gubernatorial debate scheduled for Tuesday after candidates of color were excluded and accused the university of discrimination. Two Republicans and four Democrats, who are all white, were slated to participate. But four established Democratic candidates of color didn't meet the criteria to participate, which was based on their polling and fundraising. The university defended the methodology used to determine who would be included, but said the debate co-hosts could not agree on a solution. No clear front-runner has emerged in the crowded race ahead of the June 2 primary.
