Republican Governor Candidate Steve Hilton Faces Backlash Over Ad
Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton faces condemnation from party allies after releasing a provocative campaign advertisement featuring sexual innuendo.
Republican candidate for California governor Steve Hilton is facing condemnation from members of his own party following the release of a campaign advertisement titled Just Try It, California. The spot features two young women in a darkened room with a Pride flag, using sexual innuendo and double-entendres to depict the act of casting a mail-in ballot for Hilton.
Republican nominees Sonja Shaw and Michael Gates denounced the advertisement, with Shaw calling it a clear example of why people are leaving the party and Gates stating that California families deserve better. Hilton, a former Fox News host, defended the ad as a provocative and satirical attempt to make a point, though he expressed regret that some were offended and asked for grace as the campaign continues.
Democratic opponent Xavier Becerra mocked the advertisement on social media, referencing his support for Medicare for All with the caption, "Steve, just try it!" Hilton currently trails Becerra significantly in the polls as the November midterm elections approach.
