California voters have until June 2 to return their ballots, and tonight's NBC Los Angeles debate at 7 p.m. local time offers the highest-polling candidates one of their final chances to break through before the primary. The New York Times will livestream the event with live analysis.

Governor Gavin Newsom cannot seek re-election due to term limits, leaving Democrats in the nation's most populous state without a clear standard-bearer. Former Congressman Eric Swalwell had gained momentum before his campaign collapsed last month amid sexual assault allegations, creating an opening that Xavier Becerra, the former California attorney general and Biden administration official, has capitalized on.

Democratic leaders face an unusual anxiety: because the top two candidates advance to November regardless of party, two Republicans could potentially dominate the general election. Tom Steyer, the billionaire who has gained momentum since Swalwell's exit, focused on taxing polluters. Katie Porter, the progressive former congresswoman from Orange County, addressed questions about her temperament. Steve Hilton, the former Fox News commentator endorsed by President Trump, argued against single-party rule.

The first nationally televised debate took place last night on CNN, with attacks growing more personal and increasingly targeting Becerra. Tonight's rematch represents perhaps the last major opportunity for candidates to shift the race before voters finalize their choices.