Hilton Accuses Becerra of 'Dodging' Campaign Trail, 'Waiting to Be Handed the Job'

Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton has accused his opponent, Xavier Becerra, of "hiding" from voters and treating the California governor's race as a predetermined outcome. During an event in West Sacramento on Wednesday, Hilton contended that Becerra is not actively campaigning but rather "waiting to be handed the job."

"Xavier Becerra is not running for governor. He is waiting to be handed the job," Hilton stated, adding that Becerra is "coasting, smirking, and treating the largest state in the country like a retirement present he already earned."

Hilton, who has stated he has visited all 58 California counties, presented his case against Becerra, arguing that the state faces significant challenges while his opponent has not adequately addressed them. "He will be nothing but a figurehead and rubber stamp for the same old cronies who have ruined our state," Hilton said.

The criticism comes as Becerra holds a substantial lead in polling. A UC Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies poll released on September 24 showed Becerra leading Hilton by 25 points, an increase from his 18-point advantage in August. The poll surveyed 4,512 registered voters, with 9% undecided.

Hilton also criticized Becerra's campaign strategy, suggesting that Becerra is perceived as an "empty suit" controlled by the Democratic establishment. "I’ve lost count of the number of Democrat politicians and powerbrokers who have told me that Becerra was chosen precisely because he’s an empty suit that they can control," Hilton claimed.

This electoral contest takes place in a state that has not had a Republican governor since Arnold Schwarzenegger, whose tenure ended in January 2011.

The candidates participated in a single televised general-election debate on September 30. Becerra's campaign stated it never formally agreed to participate in a separate debate hosted by The Los Angeles Times, an event critics accused him of "dodging."

Hilton also addressed comments made by Becerra regarding his family background, where Becerra described his parents as immigrants who came to California with little money. Hilton has accused Becerra of "immigrant stolen valor," alleging that Becerra's father was born in Sacramento and was thus a U.S. citizen by birth, a claim that remains unsubstantiated.

Additionally, Hilton revived criticism of Becerra's tenure as Health and Human Services secretary, referencing reported disputes with former administration officials. Hilton's broader critique targets the Democratic establishment in California, citing issues such as the cost of living, homelessness, artificial intelligence, and preparations for the Los Angeles Olympics.