An interview between CBS News California Investigates correspondent Julie Watts and California gubernatorial candidate Katie Porter spawned a viral exchange that has led to a big moment in the race to replace Gov. Gavin Newsom when he terms out in 2026.

The exchange has posed the question: How bad, or good, is this interaction for Porter's campaign?

The viral interaction began when Watts asked Porter about seeking Republican votes.

"What do you say to the 40% of California voters who you'll need in order to win, who voted for Trump?" Watts asked, to which Porter responded with, "How would I need them in order to win, ma'am?"

Porter pushed back, taking issue with too many follow-up questions and accusing Watts of being "unnecessarily argumentative," before threatening to walk out on th

See Full Page