California governor candidates pitch Democrats at convention - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Mark Z. Barabak

February 22, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

SAN FRANCISCO — Eight Democratic hopefuls for California governor recently took center stage at the state party convention in San Francisco, delivering quickfire speeches to sway thousands of party faithful. The event marked a pivotal moment in a race that had previously lacked momentum or clear frontrunners. Candidates like Katie Porter, Antonio Villaraigosa, and Xavier Becerra used their brief time to highlight personal struggles, criticize President Trump, and propose ambitious policies, all while aiming to connect with an influential audience ahead of the June 2 primary. The candidates painted vivid portraits of their humble upbringings — from Villaraigosa’s childhood in a home troubled by alcoholism and domestic violence to Katie Porter’s experience as a single mother juggling work, parenting, and financial struggles. These personal stories aimed to establish relatability with voters, emphasizing shared challenges like the high cost of living in California. Trump-bashing was a common thread, with many candidates attacking his policies on schools, healthcare, and immigration. Porter notably stood out by directly addressing Trump’s impact on her family’s finances, urging the crowd to join her in chanting against him. Candidates also made bold promises to address California’s pressing issues. Porter vowed to eliminate state income tax for those earning less than $100,000, provide free childcare, and achieve universal healthcare — though she did not detail how these costly initiatives would be funded. Other contenders, like Ian Calderon, focused on breaking up PG&E, a controversial utility company, while Becerra positioned himself as a practical leader with a proven record in government. Despite the lack of a clear frontrunner, the convention provided an opportunity for candidates to make their mark and gain momentum ahead of the primary. This event matters because it highlights the growing competition in California’s gubernatorial race and the candidates’ efforts to appeal to Democratic voters. The speeches not only showcased their visions but also underscored the importance of affordability and Trump resistance in shaping voter sentiment. As the race heats up, these early moves will likely influence which candidates gain traction with key demographics — making this convention a critical stepping stone for those aiming to win California’s influential gubernatorial seat.

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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/22/2026