Democrat Xavier Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton are set to debate on Wednesday night on CNN as they vie to succeed term-limited California Governor Gavin Newsom. Becerra, a seasoned California and federal official, holds a significant lead in polls, while Hilton, a former Fox News host and entrepreneur, seeks to leverage voter concerns about cost of living and the state’s direction.
Debate Details
The debate, providing a nationwide audience, will highlight their visions on topics like affordability, taxes, housing, AI, and Hollywood’s future. Scheduled for 9 p.m. ET (6 p.m. PT), it will air from CNN’s studios near Los Angeles. Jake Tapper and Dana Bash will moderate.
Polling Insights
Recent polls show Becerra with a clear advantage. A Public Policy Institute of California survey (Sept. 4-10) found him leading 60% to Hilton’s 38%. Another poll by Berkeley Institute (Sept. 15-20) positioned Becerra up by 25 points. Such polling provides Hilton an opportunity to directly address voters as the campaign nears its end.
The Affordability Issue
The debate’s central theme is expected to be the cost of living. Hilton, 57, has centered his campaign on reducing living costs. He aims to lower gasoline prices, cut utility bills, and speed up the construction of starter homes. Hilton proposes eliminating state income taxes on the first $150,000 of income, suggesting funding from cuts to high-speed rail and certain state departments.
Becerra, 68, offers a different strategy. He proposes a “Power Hour” plan providing low-income households with up to two hours of free solar-powered electricity. Additionally, he suggests freezing utility and insurance rates and emphasizes healthcare, including a push for universal coverage.
Affordability resonates across party lines, with the PPIC survey showing majorities of Democrats, Republicans, and independents consider it crucial to their voting decisions.
Hilton’s Approach to Democratic Leadership
Hilton presents the election as a critique of Democratic leadership in California, distancing his campaign from broader Republican politics. He asserts that while voters can oppose Trump, they can also support his bid, attributing state problems to Democratic governance.
Becerra, in contrast, highlights his political and government experience, emphasizing accountability rather than promises. Previously California’s attorney general, Becerra served as Health and Human Services Secretary under President Biden. Hilton positions himself as an outsider challenging the state’s political status quo.
AI and Hollywood’s Future
Artificial intelligence is another significant debate topic. Becerra supports using AI in government to enhance efficiency and calls for a national safety regulation framework. Hilton warns against the risks of improper AI regulation, particularly affecting children and creative sectors.
Discussion may also cover California’s entertainment industry future. The state doubled its tax-credit program for film and television to $750 million, which Hilton deems insufficient. He suggests expanding tax incentives, fast-tracking approvals, and establishing a governor’s office to minimize bureaucratic delays. Becerra also advocates for enhanced production tax credits and permits, alongside proposing a “California Entertainment Summit.”
Debate Significance
For Becerra, the debate is a platform to promote his record and criticize Hilton’s plans while defending Democratic leadership amidst affordability concerns.
Hilton aims to convert voter dissatisfaction with high living costs and other issues into campaign support, utilizing the national audience. As Election Day on November 3 approaches and mail ballots emerge, Hilton hopes to capitalize on the debate to gain momentum.