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[POLITICS] · United States · 26 sources

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California gubernatorial candidates debate cost of living and immigration

Democratic candidate Xavier Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton participated in their first scheduled one-on-one televised debate on CNN for the California gubernatorial race. The debate focused heavily on the state’s high cost of living, immigration, and the influence of former President Donald Trump.

Steve Hilton, who has received Trump’s endorsement, proposed several economic reforms, including eliminating state income taxes on the first $150,000 of earnings, reducing gasoline prices to $3 per gallon, and cutting utility bills in half. He also blamed Democratic leadership for the exodus of industries like Hollywood from the state.

Xavier Becerra, the frontrunner in recent polls, criticized Hilton’s proposals as “Trump tax cuts” and argued they would primarily benefit the wealthy. Becerra emphasized his experience in government and focused on maintaining environmental standards while stabilizing energy supplies. The debate also featured personal exchanges, including Hilton using a derogatory nickname for Becerra and Becerra accusing Hilton of supporting Trump’s immigration policies.

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CNN · California · Donald Trump · Gavin Newsom · Steve Hilton · Xavier Becerra

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