Hilton to face Becerra in November election for California governor, CBS News projects
California Governor Election: Steve Hilton and Xavier Becerra Set for November Showdown
Hilton to face Becerra in November - CBS News has projected that Republican Steve Hilton will compete in the November general election for California’s governorship, marking a pivotal moment in the state’s political landscape. With the top-two primary results finalized, Hilton has emerged as a strong contender, facing Democrat Xavier Becerra, the former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary and California attorney general. Becerra’s late surge in the race, following the withdrawal of former Representative Eric Swalwell, has positioned him as the frontrunner for the November ballot. The contest now hinges on voters’ preferences for a new direction in state leadership.
The Candidates: A Battle Between Change and Experience
Steve Hilton, a former Fox News host, has built his campaign around the theme of transformation, aiming to challenge the current political status quo. His platform emphasizes streamlining governance and creating an environment where businesses can thrive, families can be supported, and individuals can pursue their aspirations. Meanwhile, Xavier Becerra brings a wealth of experience, having served as California’s attorney general and HHS secretary, where he tackled issues ranging from healthcare reform to combating sex trafficking. His rise in the polls suggests a strong appeal to voters seeking stability and proven leadership.
Hilton’s path to the general election was marked by his ability to secure the second spot in the top-two primary, narrowly defeating billionaire environmentalist Tom Steyer, a Democrat. Steyer, who had previously invested heavily in the race, conceded his bid for the governorship but used his statement to critique the political landscape. "Donald Trump embodies the corporations' profit-first model of politics," Steyer said, arguing that Hilton’s victory would represent a setback for progressive values. "Californians must unite behind Xavier Becerra to prevent this outcome."
"I want to thank every single one of you who voted for me, around 2 million of you. I want to thank everyone who didn’t vote for me, and I want you to know that I’m running for governor to be of service to you to make sure that our government gets the basics right so that you could live your dreams," Hilton said in a video statement shared on social media. "Follow your dream — that’s what California is all about. I want this state to be the best state in the world to start and raise a family; to start, run and grow a business. That’s why I’m running for governor. That’s why we need change."
If elected, Hilton would become California’s first Republican governor since Arnold Schwarzenegger’s tenure ended in 2011. His campaign has drawn attention to his background as a strategist for former British Prime Minister David Cameron, a role he held from May 2010 to May 2012. Before entering the California political arena in 2012, Hilton had previously sought a U.K. parliamentary seat as a member of the Conservative Party in 2005, though he was unsuccessful in that bid.
Becerra’s potential victory could make him the first Latino governor in California’s history in over 150 years. Since Romulado Pacheco, the state’s first Latino governor, left office in 1872, no other leader from the Latino community has held the position. Becerra’s campaign has framed its success as a reflection of the electorate’s desire for a candidate who can address pressing issues like healthcare, environmental policy, and economic growth.
The race has also drawn attention to the broader political dynamics at play. With Democrats maintaining a supermajority in the state Legislature, Becerra’s candidacy aligns with the party’s goals of progressive governance. However, Hilton’s appeal to voters seeking a shift in leadership highlights the growing interest in alternative political strategies. As results from Tuesday’s primary rolled in, Hilton emphasized that his early lead represented a mandate for change, stating, "It looks very much like Californians really will have the chance to vote for change in November and take our state in a new direction."
Support From Prominent Figures
Current Governor Gavin Newsom and former Vice President Kamala Harris have publicly endorsed Becerra, underscoring the significance of his campaign. Newsom praised Becerra’s "grit and experience," arguing that his leadership would be crucial in defending California against potential policies from Donald Trump. Harris, who worked alongside Becerra during the Biden administration, highlighted his track record of confronting challenges. "I have been fortunate to see firsthand how Xavier never shies away from the biggest fights," Harris wrote, "whether it was taking on the drug companies as Secretary of Health and Human Services or going after sex traffickers and big polluters as California’s Attorney General. I know as Governor, he will do whatever it takes to stand up to Donald Trump, defend our rights, and protect our communities."
Other notable candidates in the race included Tony Thurmond, the State Superintendent of Public Instruction, and Chad Bianco, the Riverside County Sheriff. Neither of these figures has yet conceded, leaving the November election as a fiercely contested affair. Bianco, a Republican, has maintained a steady presence in the race, while Hilton’s campaign continues to focus on its message of reform and renewed energy.
The primary also saw the exit of several high-profile contenders. Former Orange County Representative Katie Porter, San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan, and former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa all acknowledged that they would not be California’s next governor. Their campaigns, which had initially drawn significant attention, were ultimately overshadowed by the momentum of Becerra and Hilton. This outcome reflects the shifting priorities of voters, who appear to be aligning with candidates who offer clear visions for the state’s future.
Becerra’s potential election would mark a historic milestone, symbolizing the growing influence of Latino voters in California’s political process. His campaign has positioned him as a unifying figure, capable of bridging the gap between diverse communities. Meanwhile, Hilton’s focus on economic empowerment and regulatory reform has resonated with a segment of the electorate eager to see a new approach to governance. As the November election approaches, the race is shaping up to be a defining moment for California’s political direction.
With the state’s economy and social policies at the forefront of the debate, the final outcome will likely hinge on which candidate can best connect with voters. The projected general election between Hilton and Becerra sets the stage for a decisive contest that could reshape the state’s leadership for years to come. As the final weeks of the campaign unfold, both candidates are poised to capitalize on their strengths, offering distinct paths forward for California’s future.