Seven candidates running for California governor participated in their fifth and final debate Thursday evening, with discussions centering largely on affordability concerns facing state residents.

The debate provided candidates an opportunity to deliver closing arguments to voters on how they would address mounting cost of living pressures. Participants fielded questions about rising expenses across multiple sectors that have affected Californians' daily lives.

Key issues addressed during the forum included escalating gas prices, increasing grocery costs, and the ongoing housing affordability crisis that has impacted communities statewide. These economic concerns have emerged as central themes throughout the gubernatorial campaign.

The debate comes as voters prepare to make their final decisions in the race for California's top executive office. Candidates used the platform to distinguish their policy positions and present their visions for addressing the state's economic challenges.

Separately, the campaign has seen attention focused on Democratic front-runner Xavier Becerra, with reporting on migrant child issues becoming a prominent line of attack against his candidacy. This development has added another dimension to the gubernatorial contest in its final stages.