Democratic Candidates for California Governor Discuss Housing and Cost of Living in San Diego Forum

In San Diego, six Democratic candidates running for governor next year gathered to address significant issues like housing affordability and the overall cost of living that are weighing on Californians.

The candidates, all aligned on these pressing matters, took turns discussing their political backgrounds and personal stories, likely hoping to connect with the audience and stand out from one another.

Among them was Ian Calderon, a former state legislative leader. He emphasized his credentials as the first millennial elected to the state assembly. “My experience and passion make me uniquely positioned in this race,” he noted, suggesting he can tackle challenges in ways others might not. His concern for his four children’s futures drove him to run for governor after opting out of a reelection bid for Congress in 2020. “I want them to have opportunities and a better future,” Calderon expressed. He also voiced skepticism about California’s reliance on Washington, D.C., saying, “We can’t keep depending on them to understand our needs.”

Xavier Becerra, a former U.S. Health and Human Services Director, argued for the necessity of experienced leadership. He posed a rhetorical question, asking if anyone would trust a pilot who hasn’t flown a plane to take the controls. He painted a picture of a “bare chihuahua behind a chain link fence,” challenging others to show their strength. Becerra reminded the audience of his extensive experience, including a track record of suing former President Trump numerous times during the pandemic.

Calderon and Becerra, alongside four other candidates, addressed around 150 leaders from various California labor chapters representing government employees. The union, AFSCME, boasts over 200,000 members in the state and has been impacted by federal shutdowns, budget deficits, and upcoming medical strikes. It is a significant political force, providing resources for voting initiatives.

The forum took place amid ongoing speculation about the gubernatorial race, especially since former Vice President Kamala Harris announced her candidacy and former Senator Toni Atkins suspended her campaign. There are also whispers regarding billionaire Rick Caruso and Senator Alex Padilla potentially joining the race.

Padilla acknowledged that he’s considering his options but emphasized the importance of focusing on the upcoming voting process. He mentioned his involvement with Proposition 50, which relates to congressional districts.

Interestingly, while some prominent candidates were present, others like businessman Stephen J. Crubeck and Sheriff Chad Bianco declined to attend due to prior commitments.

Matthew Maldonado, the executive director of District Council 36, which represents about 25,000 workers in Southern California, indicated that future meetings would address coalition support. Former Los Angeles mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, meanwhile, drew on his long labor history but hinted at past tensions with unions after his election in 2005, especially when he faced backlash during a workers’ strike.

While he noted his challenging experiences, he also assured the audience of his commitment to partner with workers if he becomes governor, stating, “I won’t say ‘yes’ to everything from the union. Sometimes, tough decisions are necessary to avoid financial ruin.”

Labor leaders took the lead on questioning the candidates, asking unified inquiries about their support for amendments intended to assist university workers struggling with housing costs. Katie Porter, a former senator, reflected on her own experience at UC Irvine, mentioning the benefits of investments in affordable housing tailored for staff, although she acknowledged the limitations of such initiatives.

State Superintendent Tony Thurmond participated as well, pledging support for necessary staffing and benefits for workers, particularly in light of the challenges faced during the pandemic. “Get it done, care and give them what they want,” he urged.

Former state controller Betty Yi echoed similar sentiments, criticizing healthcare providers for prioritizing profits over patient care and committing her support for worker demonstrations against Kaiser.

“I’m embarrassed by their actions,” Yi remarked, emphasizing that self-care is essential for caring for others.