Here’s how they responded on some of the key issues:
Universal healthcare
The candidates sparred over whether they’d eliminate private health insurance in favor of a state-run system, an idea that has failed repeatedly in Sacramento.
Porter, who backs a government-run healthcare system, pressed Becerra on his stance since he’s wavered on the issue recently.
“Do you support CalCare — California having its own state-run, single-payer system, yes or no?” Porter asked.
Becerra gave a vague answer.
“The most important thing about having a Medicare for All plan is that it includes everyone,” he said. “What we have to do is get to the point where we are covering everyone with something like Medicare for All.”
Mahan, who opposes a state-run system, later chimed in and said Becerra “was unable to clearly answer the most important question on healthcare.”
Becerra contested: “I did answer that question.”
Steyer joined Porter in saying he’d support it, while Bianco, Hilton, and Villaraigosa said it wasn’t practical or would cost too much.
When the debate turned to healthcare access for immigrants, the candidates were divided.
Steyer, Porter and Becerra said they supported state-funded healthcare coverage for low-income immigrants without legal status, which Newsom passed then pared back. Bianco called the policy “ridiculous.”
Immigration
Other arguments about immigration fell largely along party lines.
The Democrats sharply rebuked the Trump administration’s immigration raids.