KABC & USC Face “Legal Remedies” From Ex-LA Mayor Over Gubernatorial Debate Exclusion; Ex-CA Attorney General Calls Decision “Chilling & Dangerous”
By Dominic Patten
Published on March 18, 2026.
KABC and the University of Southern California are facing legal remedies from former LA Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, who was excluded from the California gubernatorial debate on March 24. The Disney-owned outlet and the university are also facing possible "legal remedies" from former CA Attorney General Xavier Becerra, who called the decision "chilling & Dangerous" and "disloyal". The decision to exclude former LA mayor was made by ex-federal Health and Human Services Secretary, Xavier Beceerra. All four candidates deemed to not meet the criteria required for the debate were individuals of color, with all excluded being individuals of black and Latino. The debate will be hosted by ABC7 LA and Univision next week.
Related Articles
Washington governor drops Cesar Chavez Day honor, plans to mark Dolores Huerta Day
The governor of Washington, Robert F. Ferguson, dropped the Cesar Chavez Day honor, citing the ongoing investigation into alleged sexual abuse allegations against him and his family.
San Diego biotech funding freeze may ease if Trump signs bill
The House of Representatives reauthorizes key federal grant programs, potentially boosting San Diego’s innovation economy by $100 million annually, despite a funding freeze.
Recapping the Senate hearing for Markwayne Mullin's cabinet nomination
The Senate hearing for Markwayne Mullin’s cabinet nomination highlighted tensions over support for violent acts, the ongoing shutdown of government agencies, and calls for reforms.