Xavier Becerra Leads Steve Hilton in California Governor Race
Democrat Xavier Becerra holds a polling lead over Republican Steve Hilton as the candidates propose opposing tax and housing strategies for California.
Democratic candidate Xavier Becerra currently holds a significant lead in the polls for the California gubernatorial race against Republican challenger Steve Hilton. The candidates offer contrasting visions for the state's economy and public services, with Becerra proposing to declare the housing shortage a state of emergency and combat price gouging to address affordability.
Steve Hilton, who received an endorsement from President Donald Trump, campaigns on a platform of eliminating state income taxes on the first $150,000 of resident earnings and reducing gas prices to $3 per gallon. Hilton also advocates for prioritizing single-family home construction over high-rise developments and protecting girls' sports regarding transgender issues. The California Post editorial board endorsed Hilton, arguing that 16 years of Democratic rule have resulted in increased poverty and a business exodus.
Both candidates identify the Tijuana sewage crisis in San Diego County as an emergency. Hilton proposes a state of emergency declaration to unlock funding, while Becerra points to his previous legal actions against the federal government. On immigration, Hilton supports strict law enforcement and secure borders, whereas Becerra opposes using federal resources to deport employed immigrants without criminal records.
