CNN is bringing a major moment to the 2026 California governor’s race. The network will host a two-hour California Gubernatorial Primary Debate on May 5th at 9 PM ET, broadcasting live from the Los Angeles area.
Anchors Kaitlan Collins and Elex Michaelson will moderate the event. The debate will air on CNN, CNN en Español, and via streaming for subscribers.
It appears as if at least five candidates will qualify for the stage: Republicans Steve Hilton and Chad Bianco, and Democrats Eric Swalwell, Tom Steyer, and Katie Porter. To earn an invitation, candidates must have raised at least $1 million for their gubernatorial campaign and hit 3% support among likely primary voters in two qualifying polls.
The eligibility window closes April 27th at 6 PM PT. Qualifying polls must have been conducted between February 1st and April 27th, 2026.
The debate will also be made available on the network’s website, mobile apps, and connected TV offerings.
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