Republican Candidates for California Governor Clash in Debate

Bianco and Hilton offer contrasting visions for the state's future at Rancho Mirage event.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 2:35am

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Republican gubernatorial candidates Chad Bianco and Steve Hilton faced off in a debate on Sunday evening at the Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa in Rancho Mirage, California. The two leading GOP contenders discussed key issues like homelessness, immigration, state regulations, and the cost of living, each proposing different approaches to restoring the 'California Dream'.

Why it matters

The debate provided local voters with a direct comparison of the candidates' visions and qualifications, as they vie to become the Republican nominee for California governor in a predominantly Democratic state. Early polling shows a tight race, with Hilton and Bianco leading the field.

The details

Bianco emphasized reducing taxes, easing regulations, and lowering living costs as key steps toward economic recovery, while Hilton argued that electing any Republican governor is the most critical factor, even suggesting he would support Bianco if necessary to secure a GOP victory. The candidates also highlighted their leadership experience, with Bianco pointing to his eight years as Riverside County Sheriff and Hilton countering that governing a single county does not necessarily translate to addressing the diverse needs of the entire state.

  • The debate took place on Sunday evening, April 5, 2026.
  • A recent UC Berkeley poll showed Hilton leading with 17% voter support, followed closely by Bianco at 16%.

The players

Chad Bianco

The Republican candidate for California governor and current Riverside County Sheriff, with eight years of leadership experience.

Steve Hilton

The other leading Republican candidate for California governor, who argued that electing any Republican is the most critical factor, even suggesting he would support Bianco if necessary.

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What they’re saying

“We must restore the 'California Dream' by reducing taxes, easing regulations, and lowering the cost of living.”

— Chad Bianco, Republican Candidate for California Governor

“Electing a Republican governor is the most critical factor, regardless of who it is. I would support Bianco if necessary to secure a GOP victory.”

— Steve Hilton, Republican Candidate for California Governor

What’s next

The two candidates will continue to campaign and debate leading up to the Republican primary election, where voters will choose the party's nominee to face the Democratic candidate in the general election.

The takeaway

This debate highlighted the contrasting approaches of the leading Republican candidates for California governor, as they seek to appeal to voters and position themselves for the primary election. The outcome will have significant implications for the state's future direction.