The final debate among California's leading gubernatorial candidates, held in San Francisco, offered little to shift the dynamics of the race.Columnists Gustavo Arellano, Mark Z.

Barabak, and Anita Chabria noted that candidates mostly relied on past accomplishments and nostalgic references rather than presenting fresh visions for the state’s future.With none polling above 20%, voters remain uncertain about whom to support.

Arellano highlighted that many candidates drew on past glories—Villaraigosa with his mayoral slogan, Becerra recalling actions against Trump, and Porter using her whiteboard technique from Capitol Hill—rather than offering solutions to current challenges.

Barabak described the debate as a stage performance of rehearsed roles, noting that attacks and policy promises were predictable and unlikely to influence the top-two primary outcome.

Chabria pointed out that only Becerra, Steyer, and Hilton appear as serious contenders, while Porter delivered her best performance yet but may be too late to change the race.

The debate also spotlighted concerning stances, including Hilton’s proposal to extradite abortion providers to states where abortion is illegal, which could disqualify him in California’s pro-choice environment.

Overall, the debate reinforced existing poll standings rather than providing voters with new guidance, leaving the race’s future largely dependent on perceived electability and voter turnout.