In what may be their only debate of the season, Becerra avoided a misstep and Hilton pitched himself as the change California needs.
Oct 1, 2026
Updated 4:27 pm PT
Viewers at Victorio’s Ristorante in North Hollywood attend a watch party for the CNN debate between gubernatorial candidates Democrat Xavier Becerra, left, and Republican Steve Hilton Wednesday night, Sept. 30, 2026. (Jason Almond / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)