Leading candidates for California governor will meet for a debate at UC Riverside on Nov. 7 to discuss health care challenges faced by state voters.

UCR is a co-host of “Health Matters: A Conversation with California’s Next Governor,” a nonpartisan forum organized by 11 California health-focused advocacy organizations.

Four gubernatorial candidates are confirmed to participate: Xavier Becerra, former U.S. Health and Human Services secretary; California Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond; Antonio Villaraigosa, former Los Angeles mayor and former speaker of the state Assembly; and Betty Yee, former state controller.

About 300 community leaders, nonprofit partners, local residents, and elected officials are expected to attend the event, which is invite-only and limited in seating. UCR faculty, staff, and students can apply to attend the debate through a lottery.

“UCR is pleased to host the Health Matters Gubernatorial Forum and help elevate the Inland Empire’s voice in shaping California’s health future,” said Elizabeth Romero, assistant vice chancellor for governmental and community relations. “As a top public research university, we’re proud to connect science, policy, and community in pursuit of a healthier, more equitable state.”

The 90-minute forum, which starts at 1:30 p.m., will be live streamed on NBCLA.com, Telemundo52.com and the two stations’ mobile apps and YouTube channels. 

The debate moderators are Paulette Brown-Hinds, founder and CEO of Voice Media Ventures; and Colleen Williams, anchor at NBC4 news.

Candidates will be questioned on health and equity issues including access to health care, housing, aging, climate, safety, and economic opportunity, according to the organizers.

“Everyone in California deserves to enjoy good health and experience wellness and we deserve to know what our next governor will do to make this a reality for communities across the state,” said Richard Tate, president and CEO of the California Wellness Foundation, one of the health advocacy groups.

Organizers chose to hold the event in the Inland Empire because it reflects the state’s diversity and challenges faced in accessing high-quality health care. Over 40% of residents in Riverside and San Bernardino counties rely on Med-Cal, according to Health Matters.

The California primary election to choose the next governor will be held June 2, 2026.

Members of the campus community interested in attending the debate can apply to the lottery with their name and campus affiliation using this form. Submissions are due by Oct. 25 at 5 p.m.

The School of Medicine will host a watch party starting at 1 p.m. in SOM Education Building II, room 205 for those wishing to watch on campus.