California Gubernatorial Candidates Prioritize Homeownership Amid Affordability Crisis

Event summary

  • Six leading candidates for California Governor participated in a forum hosted by the CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (C.A.R.) on March 6, 2026.
  • Candidates, spanning the political spectrum, acknowledged the severity of California’s housing affordability crisis and committed to prioritizing homeownership.
  • The forum highlighted trends including declining affordability, a rising average age of first-time homebuyers, and a widening gap between wages and home prices.
  • C.A.R. estimates that nearly 190,000 real estate professionals are members of the organization.

The big picture

The prioritization of homeownership by gubernatorial candidates underscores the growing political pressure to address California's housing crisis, which impacts the state's $3.6 trillion economy. This forum signals that housing policy will be a key differentiator in the 2026 election, potentially leading to significant shifts in regulatory approaches and investment priorities. The focus on first-time homebuyers suggests a recognition that broader economic mobility is tied to access to homeownership.

What we're watching

Policy Shifts
The degree to which candidates' stated commitments translate into concrete policy proposals will reveal the true extent of their focus on homeownership solutions.
Regulatory Impact
How candidates address regulatory barriers impacting housing costs will significantly influence the pace of new construction and affordability improvements.
Voter Response
The prominence of homeownership as a campaign issue will likely shape voter turnout and influence the overall election outcome, potentially impacting future housing policy.