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California Gubernatorial Candidates Tackle Homeownership Issues at 2026 Forum

On March 6, 2026, the California Association of Realtors (C.A.R.) hosted the Homeownership Matters Gubernatorial Forum in Sacramento, where six prominent candidates for the upcoming gubernatorial election converged to discuss a pressing issue in California: homeownership. The forum, moderated by C.A.R. President Tamara Suminski and CEO Phil Hawkins, provided a stage for the candidates to outline their plans for making homeownership more attainable across the state.

Candidates Addressing California's Housing Crisis

The event featured notable candidates from diverse political backgrounds:

• - Xavier Becerra, former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services
• - Steve Hilton, entrepreneur and political advisor
• - Matt Mahan, Mayor of San Jose
• - Katie Porter, former U.S. Congresswoman
• - Eric Swalwell, U.S. Congressman
• - Antonio Villaraigosa, former Mayor of Los Angeles

As the candidates exchanged views, it became evident that they collectively recognized the urgency of California's housing crisis. Many of them pointed to the significant barriers that prevent families, especially first-time buyers, from achieving homeownership.

Acknowledging the Severity of the Crisis

Phil Hawkins articulated the overarching sentiment, stating, "Housing affordability is one of the defining challenges facing California." This reflects the consensus among candidates that expanding access to homeownership should be a top priority. With rising costs and stagnant wages, many residents find themselves unable to access the housing market, leading to an increasing number of renters in the state.

The candidates deliberated on several key topics regarding homeownership:
1. Regulatory Barriers: Many pointed to existing regulations that contribute to inflated housing costs. Addressing these restrictions could facilitate more affordable homeownership opportunities for residents.
2. First-Time Buyers: The forum shed light on the particular challenges faced by first-time homebuyers. With declining affordability and rising property prices, the gap between income levels and housing costs continues to widen, making it increasingly difficult for new buyers to enter the market.
3. Generational Stability: Candidates emphasized that homeownership is vital not just for individual wealth but for community strength and economic mobility. The city’s vibrancy is closely linked to the ability of families to invest in their neighborhoods.

Implications for California's Future

Tamara Suminski reiterated that homeownership transcends housing supply; it’s about fostering economic mobility and ensuring community stability. "If working families cannot put down roots in their communities, the consequences extend far beyond the housing market," she noted, emphasizing the need for comprehensive strategies that could uplift all Californians.

The state’s economy, ranked as the fourth largest globally, hinges on making homeownership feasible for its population. The forum showcased candidates’ commitment to devising actionable plans to tackle these pressing issues.

Looking Ahead: Homeownership as a Central Issue

As the 2026 gubernatorial race progresses, homeownership is anticipated to remain a focal point of dialogue among politicians, voters, and industry leaders alike. The forum served not only as a platform for candidates to showcase their plans but also as a reminder of the urgency surrounding this crucial topic.

For further insights into homeownership and to view the recorded discussions, interested parties can access resources through the C.A.R. website or their official YouTube channel. The Homeownership Matters campaign seeks to elevate the conversation around affordable housing solutions and the vital importance of homeownership in California.

For more information, visit homeownershipmattersca.com.