California’s Gubernatorial Race: Hilton vs. Becerra

The upcoming gubernatorial race in California features a clash between two distinct political visions. Republican Steve Hilton, once a commentator on Fox News and endorsed by Donald Trump, has secured votes to face Democrat Xavier Becerra in the general election. Becerra, a former state attorney general and health secretary under the Biden administration, aspires to consolidate California’s liberal policies.

The winner will succeed Governor Gavin Newsom to lead a state with a population of 39 million. California boasts one of the largest global economies, encompassing Hollywood, a thriving tech industry, and vast farming areas. Nonetheless, the next governor will need to address enduring challenges like the high cost of living, housing shortages, and homelessness.

In California’s political landscape, Democrats surpass Republicans in voter registration, with figures standing at 45% and 25% respectively. Despite this, Hilton is appealing to voter frustration, aiming to overturn nearly two decades of Democratic dominance in statewide offices. The last Republican governor, Arnold Schwarzenegger, secured a second term in 2006.

“If you’re happy with the way that California is being run, Xavier Becerra is your guy. If you want change, vote for me.” – Steve Hilton

Trump’s endorsement proved beneficial for Hilton in the GOP primary. However, it could pose challenges in the general election where Becerra’s track record against Trump serves as a cornerstone of his campaign.

Becerra, appointed attorney general by then-Governor Jerry Brown in 2017, actively opposed Trump’s administration. He initiated over 120 legal actions against the federal government, critiquing Trump’s policies on issues like emissions, wildfire aid, and support for transgender student-athletes.

“Donald Trump is doubling down on decline and counting on people being too fearful, distracted or gullible to fight back.” – Xavier Becerra

The general election lineup emerged after a chaotic primary process. California’s mail-in voting procedures can delay vote counting, providing challenges in determining outcomes swiftly. The Associated Press declared Becerra’s advancement last Friday, with Hilton confirmed on Tuesday. Tom Steyer, a Democrat and billionaire activist, conceded after a close contest.

Affordability remains a significant topic in the race. Hilton proposes eliminating income tax on the first $100,000 earnings, facilitating loans for first-time homeowners, and freezing in-state tuition at public colleges. Becerra suggests declaring states of emergency to address energy costs, housing shortages, and insurance rates.

Both candidates share immigrant backgrounds, though they bring different narratives. Hilton, a British immigrant, moved to California in 2012 and became a U.S. citizen in 2021. On the other hand, Becerra, a Sacramento native, is the son of Mexican immigrants and emphasizes his underdog story.

If elected, Becerra would be the first Latino governor in California since the late 19th century.

Reporters Nicholas Riccardi and Stephen Ohlemacher contributed to this article for the Associated Press.