On Tuesday, gubernatorial contenders Steve Hilton and Xavier Becerra outlined their visions for California during a forum in Sacramento, where they shared contrasting policy proposals while criticizing one another's political affiliations.
Democrat Xavier Becerra pledged to reduce healthcare costs for Californians and hinted at plans focusing on energy and artificial intelligence. Meanwhile, Republican Steve Hilton promised to lower gas prices and utility costs, portraying California’s Democratic administration as the source of its current challenges.
Their face-off is scheduled for the November 3 election, succeeding outgoing Governor Gavin Newsom. At the Sacramento event, which drew an audience in the hundreds, both candidates delivered their campaign messages amid an atmosphere of political rivalry.
Hilton used California's large budget, homelessness rates, and the cost of living as indicators of a decade and a half of failed Democratic governance. He stated, “It’s just a complete failure on every front,” attributing the situation to the powerful political machine supported by government unions and various organizations.
In response, Becerra defended the Democratic leadership positioned as a safeguard against the nationwide policies of the Trump administration. He likened the political dynamics to a family issue, stating, “We’re all in this together,” emphasizing collective accountability over blaming a single entity for problems.
This gathering was one of the few joint appearances since their competitive primary in June, hosted by Politico and backed by prominent sponsors including Airbnb and Google.
In a state with a strong Democratic majority—where 45% of voters identify as Democrats against 25% for Republicans—Becerra has held a significant fundraising advantage and enjoys backing from well-financed independent groups.
Becerra cautioned against making unrealistic promises, stressing the importance of accountability. He specifically referenced the unrealistic housing promises made by Newsom in the past. “It’s gonna be something that’s realistic,” he noted when discussing housing goals.
Conversely, he made more definitive commitments regarding healthcare, asserting his capability to lower prescription drug costs based on prior successes. He also implied the healthcare sector itself could hold answers to reducing insurance loss.
Hilton, acutely aware of the hurdles before him in the general election, expressed confidence in his ability to win, citing his extensive campaign activities across the state. He highlighted the alarming trend of residents and businesses exiting California, arguing it represents a critical juncture for the state.
In his campaign, Hilton has outlined ambitious initiatives, such as reducing gas prices to $3 a gallon and reforming income tax for individuals earning under $150,000. However, how he plans to channel these proposals through a Democratic-controlled legislature remains a point of contention.
Becerra, while not announcing formal policies, indicated an intention to enhance regulations within the burgeoning AI sector and showed openness to government investment in AI companies to ensure mutual prosperity.
Hilton, who has utilized AI in his campaign advertisements, scrutinized leaders in AI for not building public trust. He suggested a balanced approach to regulation, warning against the pitfalls of both over-regulating and under-regulating this rapidly changing field.
When challenged about the ongoing support for Democrats among voters, Hilton emphasized the lack of viable alternatives rather than alleging ignorance on the part of the electorate. He argued for the necessity of a proactive, business-friendly approach to governance in California, labeling Becerra as “unqualified” while notably avoiding discussion of his own endorsement by Donald Trump that led to his advancement in the election.
Concluding his remarks, Hilton celebrated California's tremendous resources and potential, advocating for a leadership that occludes bureaucratic hindrances and fosters innovation.
