I Have Some Questions for the Democrats Who Want to Run California
Summary
Ezra Klein moderates a forum with top Democratic California gubernatorial candidates Tom Steyer, Javier Becerra, Katie Porter, Matt Mahan, and Antonio Villaraigosa, focusing exclusively on the state’s housing crisis. The candidates debate strategies to lower construction costs, streamline permitting, and enforce state mandates on local governments that resist building. Key topics include modular housing, labor wage standards, impact fees, and the tension between local control and statewide housing goals.
Topics discussed
Introduction and sponsor messages
Debate rules and candidate introductions
Tom Steyer on modular housing and construction costs
Javier Becerra on union labor and building speed
Katie Porter on affordable housing costs and financing
Matt Mahan on local fees, Prop 13, and zoning
State vs. local control and enforcement mechanisms
Matt Mahan and Javier Becerra on housing elements and lawsuits
Tom Steyer on incentives and California Forever model
Homelessness spending and prevention strategies
Interim housing, ADUs, and mental health services
Effective homelessness programs and rental assistance
Book recommendations and closing statements
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