Candidates for governor asked to use one-word to describe Gavin Newsoms performance

California’s messy race for governor snapped into focus Tuesday night when a crowded, combative field of candidates was asked to sum up Gov.Gavin Newsom’s tenure in just one word.The debate, broadcast live on CNN, featured seven contenders still jockeying for position in a race with no clear frontrunner, as clashes over taxes, gas prices and immigration dominated the stage.But one of the night’s most revealing moments came when moderators posed a simple question:Villaraigosa: “Performative”Porter: “Bold”Steyer: “Progressive”Hilton: “Failed”Bianco: “Failure”Becerra: “Game-changing”Mahan: “Incomplete”The blunt exercise exposed deep divisions — not just between parties, but with the candidates.

Former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa’s “performative” swipe suggested frustration with what critics see as headline-grabbing leadership, while former Rep.Katie Porter and billionaire Tom Steyer offered more favorable takes, pointing to Newsom’s aggressive liberal agenda.

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By clicking above you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.Never miss a story Republicans, meanwhile, didn’t mince words.

Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco and media figure Steve Hilton hammered the governor with near-identical condemnations.Even some Democrats appeared lukewarm.Former federal official Xavier Becerra praised Newsom as “game-changing,” but San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan’s “incomplete” hinted at unfinished business in a state still struggling with affordability and homelessness.In a state facing mounting challenges, Newsom’s legacy — like the race to replace him — remains very much up for debate....