Democratic gubernatorial candidate Xavier Becerra and Republican rival Steve Hilton have agreed to a debate on CNN scheduled for Sept. 30, concluding a prolonged standoff that had become a significant issue in the race to succeed Governor Gavin Newsom.
The announcement on Tuesday resolves weeks of public exchanges in which Hilton accused Becerra of avoiding a debate. Hilton confirmed the date on the social media platform X, stating, "After months in hiding, Becerra’s agreed to debate. I wonder what changed… Hilton vs. Becerra: September 30 on CNN."
The debate will be moderated by CNN anchors Dana Bash and Jake Tapper. The Los Angeles Times was the first to report the agreement.
Becerra's campaign confirmed the upcoming debate, with spokesperson Jonathan Underland criticizing Hilton. "If debates reward substance, it’s going to be a rough night for [President] Trump’s lapdog — an empty British blazer running on fantasies and cable-news catchphrases," Underland said in a text message. "At least he’ll be wearing shoes."
The agreement follows Hilton's recent criticism of Becerra for not accepting multiple debate invitations. Hilton, a former Fox News host, has portrayed Becerra as a career politician attempting to coast to victory in the heavily Democratic state. "It’s exactly what you expect from a 36-year career politician who has failed at every job he’s had," Hilton stated, referencing past comments attributed to Susan Rice. "This guy is either asleep, gone on vacation or is absolutely terrified of answering any questions. Either way, it is treating Californians with complete contempt."
Becerra's campaign has refuted the notion that he was refusing to debate, with Underland stating last week that Becerra had committed to debates multiple times, including on Aug. 5. The campaign characterized the accusation of refusal as inaccurate.
With mail-in ballots set to be distributed shortly after the Sept. 30 debate, this CNN showdown is expected to be the sole gubernatorial debate of the election cycle.