California Gubernatorial Candidates Clash on Climate and Budget at Stockton Forum

Four candidates in the 2026 California gubernatorial race—Tony Thurmond, Antonio Villaraigosa, Betty Yee, and Chad Bianco—debated key issues including climate change, wildfire preparedness, and the state's economic challenges at recent forums. Bianco, the Republican candidate, controversially questioned the link between wildfires and climate change and labeled some environmental activists as "terrorists," prompting strong reactions from his Democratic opponents, who affirmed the undeniable impact of climate change on wildfires. The Democrats proposed various solutions such as building housing on surplus school property, hardening homes against wildfires, expanding infrastructure, and addressing poverty and homelessness amid a projected $25 billion budget deficit. Meanwhile, the candidates also discussed managing water resources and gasoline prices, reflecting broader concerns about economic and environmental policies. Additional forums, including one focusing on health care challenges hosted by UC Riverside, will feature other gubernatorial candidates like Xavier Becerra, who were absent from the earlier debates. These events highlight the diverse policy approaches and the intensifying political discourse as California prepares for its upcoming gubernatorial election.