Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton pledged to restore the "California dream" for Latino voters during a campaign stop in Bell Gardens, California. Addressing supporters at Cristo Rey Lutheran Church, Hilton accused Democrats of abandoning working-class residents and pitched himself as the candidate for those seeking change.
"I’m going to fight every single day between now and the election," Hilton told the crowd. He promised a significant overhaul of the state’s public education system, which he described as a "disaster," noting that "less than half the kids in our public schools can read properly." Hilton's plan includes "bringing back skills training in every school" to better prepare young people for future jobs.
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The candidate also vowed to reduce government spending, eliminate the state’s annual $800 small-business tax, and cut utility bills in half. Additionally, Hilton has pledged to eliminate state income tax on the first $150,000 Californians earn.
Hilton was joined by Lieutenant Governor candidate Gloria Romero and Araceli Martinez, a candidate for California State Senate District 30. The campaign event featured attendees wearing "Latinos for Hilton" shirts and included local food and music.
"Why would you keep voting the same way and expect a different result?" Hilton asked voters. "We obviously need a change in California, and it’s in our power to get it. You’ve just got to vote for it."
He framed the election as a choice between change and continuation of current policies, targeting his Democratic opponent, presumably Xavier Becerra, though the note does not specify who Hilton is running against. "The same party has been in charge for years," Hilton stated. "If you want more of the same, vote [Democratic opponent]." He asserted, "I’m the only change candidate in this election. The Democratic Party has abandoned Latino voters."
Hilton drew a contrast with policies in other states, stating, "Latinos in California have lower rates of home ownership and employment than Latinos in other states, such as Texas and Florida, where they have different policies." He criticized what he termed Becerra’s "climate posturing," arguing that environmental policies would increase gas prices and disproportionately affect working-class Californians.
"They’re the ones hit the most by the high gas prices, not the elites who are working from home, tapping away on their laptops," Hilton said. "They’re not hurt by any of that. [The Democratic opponent] wants to increase your gas prices, increase your electric bill."
Hilton, who was born in Britain and later became a U.S. citizen, expressed empathy for those seeking opportunity, stating, "I understand what it's like to want to climb the ladder of opportunity in a new country. I want that opportunity for everyone in California."
The event also supported local businesses and provided free backpacks and school supplies for students.
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