Eight candidates seeking to become California’s next governor met for an unwieldy debate Tuesday, where the candidates discussed their plans to make the state more affordable and sought to gain ground in an unsettled field.

Eight candidates for California governor vigorously sparred during a debate in Claremont, Calif., on Tuesday night as each tried to break out of a field that remains tightly bunched.

Tuesday's debate at Pomona College showcases the largest confirmed number of participants to date, including Democrats Xavier Becerra, Matt Mahan, Katie Porter, Tom Steyer, Tony Thurmond and Antonio V...