Xavier Becerra and Steve Hilton clash in California governor race

Republican candidate Steve Hilton released a campaign advertisement that attacks Democratic contender Xavier Becerra for his lengthy public‑service record, noting roughly 36 years in elected and appointed positions at state and federal levels. The ad frames Becerra’s experience as part of an establishment that has overseen California’s housing, economic and public‑safety challenges, while presenting Hilton as an outsider with business and media background.

Results from California’s top‑two primary show that Becerra and Hilton will face each other in the November gubernatorial election. Analysts note the state’s strong Democratic registration advantage, but both candidates must address a looming structural budget deficit, potential tax hikes, and the risk of natural disasters such as earthquakes, wildfires and floods. The campaign is also expected to grapple with broader political dynamics, including claims of voter‑fraud conspiracies linked to former President Trump and the need to balance environmental regulation with housing construction.

The race is set against a backdrop of statewide issues that include high housing costs, economic competitiveness, public‑safety concerns, transportation infrastructure and environmental policy, all of which will shape the candidates’ platforms as they campaign toward the November vote.