So I watched the entire CA Dem Governor debate last night
Here's my takeaway: The R candidates are cartoon characters, although the British one was more likeable than the sheriff guy. More importantly, all of the Dem candidates were qualified, serious, and able to lead the largest state in the union. I would vote for any of them without hesitation.
Matt Mahon: I went into the debate with more knowledge about him than some of the others, since I live in Silicon Valley and he is the mayor of the largest city in SV. He played that up, was relaxed and camera ready, and said he would stand up to "big tech" when he was called on it. However, his efforts to "both sides" issues was not appealing to me. He did seem knowledgeable about addressing homelessness and had a record of addressing it in San Jose.
Xavier Becerra: He was calm, knowledgeable, and low key, as one would expect. But he was not afraid to speak his mind and play up his experience. One of my favorite parts was when he was challenged about the California Highway Patrol stopping truck drivers and giving them "English proficiency" tests. He spoke to that in a way tha I think will appeal to our huge Hispanic population here as well as other Democratic voters. He also spoke about his own impressive biography (something I wish he would do more) and how he was the first in his family to graduate from college.
Tom Steyer: He seemed to be presenting himself as the front runner. I'm not saying he was cocky, but he did not waste time attacking other candidates. He defended himself and his billionaire status, saying he would be glad to pay more taxes and he and his wife had agreed to give away all their money in their lifetimes. His demeanor was energetic and passionate about progressive causes, including ending homelessness and taxation.
Katie Porter: Put on the defensive at the beginning about her treatment of an aide that went viral, she apologized and tried to put it behind her. After that, she played up her "professor" persona and made many good points. I was reminded of why she was so good in congressional hearings. Teaching experience definitely translates to good communication skills.
Bottom line I am still supporting Becerra. However, I will vote for the Dem candidate no matter who it is. And so will the candidates. They were asked to pledge to support the eventual candidtate of their party and all the Dems agreed to do so.
= new reply since forum marked as read
Sounds more like game show contestants
Thanks
I'm going by memory since I didn't take notes or anything during the debate. I thought that's what they said, but I can confirm that it was a very short time period and the questions were very concise, so if candidates were not asked specifically about something it was hard to work it in.
And I mean that sincerely. Billionaires can take it. I will say that he made a fairly good impression on me. He seemed sincere and enthusiastic about progressive causes. I'm not supporting him, but I would definitely vote for him if he was the nominee.
and probably the biggest reason I could never be a politician. They have no choice but to try to stand out. In this case, the stakes are extremely high. Whoever wins the D nomination is basically the next Governor. As Carville used to say, "politics ain't beanbag". At this point, we can only hope that they will come together and help each other once there's a nominee.
I am so sorry. 
You are really doing the work of angels.
That's reflected in the polls, so it's not just my wishful thinking. Even the media seems to be more skeptical in their coverage than they were a few months ago. I did feel like you did then, but I am gradually becoming more positive. I hope you are able to feel some of that as things evolve. 
I like your attitude!
