California Gubernatorial Candidates Tackle Housing and Homelessness

Eight candidates running for governor in California propose different strategies for tackling the state’s housing affordability and homelessness issues. They largely agree on streamlining the process to build more housing by reducing bureaucratic hurdles.

Republican Steve Hilton suggests building new suburbs to ease affordability, while Democrats prefer developing housing within existing cities. All candidates seek solutions to make housing more accessible to Californians and reduce homelessness, often including initiatives to address mental health and addiction.

Candidates and Their Proposals

The primary race features two Republican and six Democratic candidates. The top two will advance to the general election. The Republicans include Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco and commentator Steve Hilton. The Democrats consist of former Attorney General Xavier Becerra, San José Mayor Matt Mahan, former Congresswoman Katie Porter, entrepreneur Tom Steyer, Superintendent Tony Thurmond, and former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa.

Xavier Becerra

Becerra advocates for cutting red tape to expedite building approvals, focusing on affordable projects. He supports tenant protection from eviction and limits on investor home purchases. His plan includes a $150-million homelessness prevention fund to aid individuals in vulnerable neighborhoods.

Chad Bianco

Bianco targets governmental barriers hindering housing development, suggesting the elimination of the California Environmental Protection Act. He promotes empowering cities to clear encampments and directing resources towards mental health and substance abuse treatment.

Steve Hilton

Hilton emphasizes building new suburbs over city developments, proposing reforms to the California Environmental Quality Act to limit lawsuits that delay projects. He suggests larger group shelters for the homeless and supports enforcing anti-camping laws.

Matt Mahan

Mahan focuses on reducing development fees and pushing cities to approve permits faster. His industrial strategy includes using factory-built homes to cut costs. He advocates for interim housing solutions and penalties for those declining shelter.

Katie Porter

Porter wants comprehensive construction of various housing types. She aims to engage federal support and streamline building strategies, focusing on interim housing and rapid rehousing efforts.

Tom Steyer

Steyer plans to build one million homes by reallocating public and private investments and closing tax loopholes. He favors factory-built housing and interim housing options, while preserving tenant protections.

Tony Thurmond

Thurmond suggests utilizing school district lands for home construction, targeting workers like teachers and nurses. He supports redevelopment agencies and housing with support services for the homeless.

Antonio Villaraigosa

Villaraigosa highlights supply and demand issues, backing laws to relax zoning for denser housing. He proposes bonds for mixed-income housing and funding for Gov. Gavin Newsom’s Homekey program.