Elections
Becerra, Hilton clash in only debate of California governor’s race
PN Team • 1 month ago
Democrat Xavier Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton met Wednesday, Sept. 30, in what is expected to be their only one-on-one debate before the Nov. 3 general election to succeed term-limited Gov. Gavin Newsom. CNN hosted the hour-long, prime-time debate in Los Angeles, with Jake Tapper and Dana Bash moderating.
The two clashed over the state's direction, with cost of living emerging as the top issue for voters. Becerra, a former congressman, state attorney general and Biden administration health secretary, pitched himself as the experienced choice, while Hilton, a Trump-endorsed former Fox News host, blamed Democratic leadership for California's high costs.
Polls show Becerra leading by wide margins, reflecting the state's heavily Democratic voter registration. The debate is seen as low-risk for Becerra but a make-or-break moment for Hilton, whose embrace of Trump's endorsement remains a liability with California voters. Becerra faces scrutiny over housing costs and unresolved homelessness under Democratic governance. No Republican has won the governorship since Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Hilton faces a steep climb in a state that hasn't elected one in 20 years.
Sources:
Sentiment
- Donald Trump Trump's endorsement is described as a political liability for Hilton among California voters.
- Democratic Party (United States) Hilton blamed Democratic leadership for California's high costs, casting mild criticism on the party.
- California California is discussed neutrally as the setting for the election and policy debates.
- Gavin Newsom Newsom is mentioned only as the term-limited outgoing governor, a neutral factual reference.
- Republican Party (United States) Republican Party is mentioned mainly in context of Hilton's uphill electoral challenge in California.
- Los Angeles Los Angeles is mentioned only as the debate's location.