California Governor Debate on March 24 Excludes Candidates of Color

Six candidates will debate on March 24, but no candidates of color were invited. This is different from California's diverse population.
By Newsroom | Politics, California |

USC and ABC7 are slated to co-host a gubernatorial debate on March 24, a forum ostensibly designed to illuminate the choices facing California voters. Yet, this event has sparked significant contention due to the explicit exclusion of any candidate of color from the invited field. This decision, seemingly overlooking the state's diverse demographics, has ignited sharp criticism.

The debate, a collaboration between ABC7 and the USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future, will feature six candidates. Details regarding the specific issues to be addressed, beyond a broad focus on "key issues shaping the race," remain largely unspecified in public announcements. The primary election is set for June 2, with the general election following in November.

Univision 34/KMEX Los Angeles is designated as the official Spanish-language broadcaster for the event. Viewers are directed to watch the live broadcast on ABC7 or stream it via the ABC7 Los Angeles app. The rationale behind the selection of the six participating candidates, and consequently the exclusion of others, has not been elaborated upon.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why are candidates of color excluded from the California gubernatorial debate on March 24?
The debate co-hosted by USC and ABC7 on March 24 will feature six candidates, but none of them are candidates of color. The reason for this specific exclusion has not been explained by the organizers.
Q: Who is affected by the exclusion of candidates of color from the March 24 debate?
California voters, especially those from diverse backgrounds, are affected because they will not see candidates of color participate in this key forum. This raises questions about representation in the upcoming elections.
Q: What happens next regarding the California gubernatorial debate on March 24?
The debate will proceed on March 24 with the six invited candidates. Univision 34/KMEX Los Angeles will broadcast the event in Spanish. The primary election is on June 2, and the general election is in November.
Q: Where can I watch the California gubernatorial debate on March 24?
You can watch the live broadcast of the debate on ABC7 or stream it using the ABC7 Los Angeles app. The event is co-hosted by USC and ABC7.