Recall Debate: Nixon Library Thursday

Norwalk, California July 13, 2021
AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez, File

Yorba Linda hosting debate without Newsom, Jenner and Elder

Aug. 4 will be a pivotal moment for the heart and soul of California when voters get the first look at the top contenders in the statewide effort to recall Gov. Gavin Newsom. This first debate will be held at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum in Yorba Linda. Church United plans to attend the debate to monitor the high-stakes election, set for Sept. 14. Information gleaned from the debate will be used to help Church United pastors engage their congregations.

 
If at least 50 percent of voters approve the recall of Newsom, the highest vote getter, regardless of percentage, will automatically be elected governor.
 
The debate comes as a new poll by the Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies (IGS) shows that Newsom has just a 3-point margin, which means a strong Republican turnout could successfully remove him from office before the end of his term. Having a conservative governor could be the last line of defense in vetoing radical legislation that is anti-life, anti-family and anti-religion.
 
“As of right now I’d say [Newsom] is in jeopardy,” Mark DiCamillo, a pollster for IGS told Politico.
 
Confirmed for the debate are John Cox, a 2018 GOP gubernatorial candidate; Kevin Faulconer, former San Diego Mayor; Assemblyman Kevin Kiley (R-Rocklin), and former Congressman Doug Ose.
 
Conservative radio host Larry Elder, a race frontrunner, had to cancel his earlier acceptance after a scheduling conflict. Sex Dysphoria candidate and former Olympian Bruce Jenner also declined the invitation because of a filming commitment. Newsom was invited to attend but has not responded. Nine registered Democrats filed as candidates though none are well known, which means if Newsom is recalled, he will likely be replaced by a Republican.
 
In all, 46 candidates qualified for the ballot. The debate, which will be carried by several Fox affiliates across the state and on the Salem Radio Network, will run from 6 to 7:30 p.m