CA governor candidates clash in last debate before primary. Here’s what to know

Democratic candidates piled on new frontrunner Xavier Becerra in the final televised debate before California’s primary, hammering him over a corruption case involving two former aides. Candidates also clashed over abortion, climate change and housing policy ahead of the June 2 vote.

FULL STORY: California governor candidates focus on corruption, abortion and climate in final debate

Here are key takeaways:

• Becerra leads a tight race: A Emerson College poll released Wednesday shows Becerra as the top choice for 19% of voters, with Republican Steve Hilton and Democrat Tom Steyer tied at 17%.
• Corruption case dominates: Becerra’s former aide Dana Williamson pleaded guilty Thursday to charges including helping steal $225,000 from a dormant campaign account. Prosecutors have said they view Becerra as a victim in the case, but Hilton told him, “You should be preparing your criminal defense.” Becerra said he “did nothing wrong.”
• Abortion divide: Asked if they would extradite a California doctor charged in Louisiana for mailing abortion pills, only Hilton and Republican Chad Bianco said yes. Hilton framed it as a constitutional issue, not one about reproductive rights. “This is not about abortion,” he said. “This about one state trying to undermine another state’s laws.”
• Climate splits the field: Hilton and Bianco were the only candidates to support resuming offshore drilling. Democrats also illustrated divisions among each other. Steyer warned California risks “falling behind the rest of the world” on clean energy. Former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa panned climate deniers as well as candidates pitching 100% renewable energy, saying the state needed an “all-of-the-above energy policy.”
• Policy specifics challenged: Former Rep. Katie Porter pressed Becerra on how he’d pay for his plans. San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan noted Becerra released a comprehensive housing plan only a week ago. Becerra pointed to Gov. Gavin Newsom’s revised budget as a model for revenue generation. He also said he had a track record of leadership, often turning the conversation back to his legal fights with President Donald Trump’s first administration as attorney general.