Republican California gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton seized an opportunity on HBO’s Real Time with Bill Maher to challenge Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear’s claim that Democratic governors have a strong record of concrete accomplishments for a potential 2028 presidential ticket. Hilton pointed directly to Gov. Gavin Newsom’s long‑running high‑speed rail project as a glaring example of unfinished promises.
Hilton’s Challenge on National Television
During the interview, Beshear argued that Democratic governors could point to “receipts” such as new housing and high‑speed rail to differentiate themselves from President Donald Trump. Hilton responded, “What Democratic governors have are receipts… Have you built the high‑speed rail?” The exchange underscored the GOP’s focus on fiscal responsibility and delivering results for taxpayers.
Bill Maher Acknowledges the Point
Host Bill Maher agreed that the rail project’s troubled history could be a potent line of attack for Hilton. “You’re going to have a field day with that. No, you’re right,” Maher said, signaling that the issue resonates beyond California’s borders.
Hilton Campaign Promises to End Funding
Matt Ciepielowski, Hilton’s campaign manager, issued a statement to Fox News Digital condemning the continued investment in the rail project. He noted, “Billions spent, years behind schedule, and Californians still can’t ride it. Gavin Newsom’s answer is to keep pouring money into it.” Ciepielowski added that Hilton would end state funding for the project on day one of his administration, arguing that struggling families should not be forced to shoulder the cost of a failed venture.
State Lawmakers Echo Criticism
California State Sen. Tony Strickland (R‑Huntington Beach), vice chair of the Senate Transportation Committee, also blasted the rail effort, citing recent findings of taxpayer‑funded travel expenses by project consultants. “The high‑speed fail should have been defunded when Newsom took office in 2019,” Strickland said. “Instead, he doubled down on a project that will never be built as originally proposed.” He warned that the misuse of public funds represents a slap in the face to families struggling with essentials like gas, food, and rent.
Project Costs and Progress
The California High‑Speed Rail Authority’s 2026 business plan estimates the initial Merced‑to‑Bakersfield segment will cost about $35.7 billion, with passenger service targeted for 2033. To date, roughly $15.7 billion has been spent, and an April estimate placed the total project cost at $126 billion—far above the original $33 billion projection. No high‑speed track has been laid, though the Authority reports completing 66 major structures and nearly 90 miles of guideway in the Central Valley.
Recent Oversight Findings
A September investigation by the state’s independent high‑speed rail inspector general uncovered about $81,000 in consultant travel expenses that appeared to violate state regulations, plus $543,000 of charges deemed impermissible under contract terms. Questionable expenses included premium transportation, trips to gyms, a nightclub, and an escape room. The Authority has responded with additional oversight, employee training, and efforts to recover improper payments.
Implications for the 2028 Race
Hilton’s focus on the rail project aligns with a broader GOP narrative that Democratic leaders are prone to wasteful spending while neglecting the everyday needs of families. By highlighting the rail’s delays and cost overruns, Hilton aims to position himself as a fiscally responsible alternative for California voters and to undermine the notion that Democratic governors have a ready list of achievements for a future presidential ticket.
While Gov. Newsom has not responded to requests for comment, the high‑speed rail debate is likely to remain a flashpoint in California’s 2026 gubernatorial race and could influence national discussions about Democratic leadership ahead of the 2028 presidential cycle.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
