In a series of speeches delivered hours apart, California’s gubernatorial candidates Xavier Becerra and Steve Hilton offered insights into the issues likely to dominate the upcoming November election. Both candidates appeared at the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO) conference in downtown Los Angeles, providing a rare platform for direct comparison since the June primary.

Candidate Xavier Becerra’s Address

Democrat Xavier Becerra, who secured the top spot in the primary with 28% of the vote, focused on aligning his Republican rival Steve Hilton with former President Trump. Becerra, former U.S. Health and Human Services secretary and California attorney general, took an indirect approach, referring to Trump as a ‘false prophet.’

Becerra highlighted the president’s unfulfilled promises, such as ending wars and reducing gasoline prices, and made clear that California could not accept leaders who propagate such misleading assurances. He emphasized the state’s resistance to policies he deemed harmful.

Steve Hilton’s Response

Hilton, who gained 24.6% of the primary vote, responded by focusing on his immigrant roots and the hurdles faced by small businesses due to excessive regulations. Endorsed by Trump, Hilton accentuated his personal history from Hungary to Britain and then California, stressing the immigrant aspiration narrative.

He discussed his journey through Oxford University, his advisory role to former UK Prime Minister David Cameron, and running restaurants, noting the difficulties for small business owners in California. Hilton framed himself as a politician focused on practical opportunities rather than ideological constraints.

Controversies and Jabs

Becerra also mocked Hilton for a viral incident involving Hilton eating a ‘street taco’ at a Del Taco. He stressed that authentic street tacos come from longstanding vendors on the street.

Hilton dismissed Becerra’s humor, claiming it distracts from essential issues like gas and housing prices. He critiqued Becerra as a long-time politician resistant to necessary change.

Broader Context

The candidates’ speeches occurred during a conference that included discussions on immigrant fatalities at the hands of federal officers. Becerra highlighted the elevated risks for people of color in seeking freedom, democracy, and safety.

Both candidates offer distinct perspectives that will shape voter decisions in the race to succeed Governor Gavin Newsom.