Democratic Candidates Address Affordability and Healthcare in San Diego
Six Democratic candidates vying for the position of governor in California gathered in San Diego on October 7, 2023, to address pressing issues such as housing affordability, the rising cost of living, and recent cuts to healthcare. The forum, attended by around 150 members of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), served as a platform for the candidates to share their political backgrounds and personal narratives while seeking to resonate with the audience.
Former state Assembly Majority Leader Ian Calderon, participating in his first gubernatorial forum since entering the race in late September, emphasized his unique perspective as the first millennial elected to the state legislature. At 39, Calderon articulated his concerns for his four children’s future, stating, “I want them to have opportunity. I want them to have a future. I want life to be better. I want it to be easier.” He highlighted the need for California to become less reliant on Washington, D.C., claiming, “We cannot continue to depend on D.C. and expect that they’re going to care about us and what our needs are.”
Another prominent figure at the forum was former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra. With extensive governmental experience, Becerra argued the importance of electing a governor with a proven track record. He posed a rhetorical question to the audience: “Would you let someone who’s never flown a plane tell you, ‘I can fly that plane back to land’?” Becerra drew attention to his history, which includes suing former President Donald Trump 122 times and managing the federal health bureaucracy during the pandemic. He expressed confidence in his capability, stating, “You don’t just grow teeth overnight,” underscoring his commitment to effective governance.
The candidates articulated their positions on various issues, including a proposed state constitutional amendment aimed at assisting University of California (UC) workers with down-payment loans. Former Congresswoman Katie Porter expressed strong support for the initiative, recounting her own experience benefiting from a housing program at UC Irvine. “I get to benefit from UC Irvine’s investment in their professionals,” she noted, highlighting the disparity faced by workers such as clerks and janitors who lack similar housing assistance.
Amidst the discussions, AFSCME leaders posed critical questions regarding labor rights and support for impending healthcare strikes. State Superintendent of Instruction Tony Thurmond, who entered the forum energetically, committed to supporting healthcare workers in their demands. “I will be there,” he affirmed regarding the picket lines expected to form with tens of thousands of Kaiser health employees later in the month.
Former state Controller Betty Yee echoed these sentiments, criticizing healthcare employers for prioritizing profit over patient care. “Shame on them. You cannot be expected to take care of others if you cannot take care of yourselves,” she said, aligning her views with those advocating for labor rights.
The forum also highlighted the shifting landscape of the gubernatorial race, especially following the announcements of former Vice President Kamala Harris opting not to run and former Senate Leader Toni Atkins suspending her campaign. Speculation remains about the potential entry of billionaire businessman Rick Caruso and Senator Alex Padilla into the race. Padilla, in an interview with the New York Times, confirmed he is considering a run but emphasized his current focus on encouraging support for Proposition 50.
AFSCME, representing over 200,000 members in California, plays a significant role in political mobilization, often providing groundwork for campaigns through door-to-door canvassing and phone banking. The union will evaluate potential endorsements for candidates at an upcoming conference, according to Matthew Maldonado, executive director for District Council 36.
The labor forum served as a critical juncture for California Democrats, emphasizing the importance of addressing affordability and healthcare as central themes leading into the gubernatorial race. With the state facing ongoing challenges, the candidates are poised to engage deeply with voters on these pressing issues as the election approaches.
