In the heated race for California’s governorship, Republican candidate Steve Hilton has launched a campaign ad targeting Democrat Xavier Becerra. The ad, released on Saturday, critiques Becerra’s extensive 36-year career in politics, suggesting he represents a continuation of California’s current political status quo.
Campaign Ad Highlights
The 55-second ad features clips of Becerra on an old-fashioned TV screen, with captions highlighting his long tenure in politics. It aims to associate Becerra with ongoing issues in California, such as homelessness and the high-speed rail project, as well as his time as Secretary of Health and Human Services under President Joe Biden. The ad concludes by linking Becerra to outgoing Governor Gavin Newsom, with the tagline, “Don’t watch another rerun,” suggesting that Becerra would not bring change to California’s governance.
Election Context
The ad’s release comes shortly after the Associated Press projected Becerra would advance to the November gubernatorial election, following the term-limited Newsom. As of Saturday, Becerra led with 26.8% of the vote, closely followed by Hilton at 26.4%, with Democrat Tom Steyer trailing at 21.1%. Approximately 68% of ballots have been counted.
Candidate Reactions
In response to the AP’s projection, Becerra celebrated the milestone, emphasizing his campaign’s focus on representing California voters. He noted the historic significance of his candidacy as the first Latino to advance from a California gubernatorial primary to a general election since Romualdo Pacheco in 1875. Becerra’s campaign framed the election as a fight for the state’s future, asserting, “We will not be bought. We will not be bullied. And we are never backing down.”
Hilton, a former Fox News host, positions himself as a political outsider and agent of change, arguing that California is on the wrong track under Democratic leadership. His campaign emphasizes a need for new direction in the state’s governance.
Looking Ahead
As the race progresses, both candidates are expected to focus on key issues affecting Californians, with Hilton challenging the status quo and Becerra highlighting his experience and vision for the state. The final results of the primary are yet to be certified, but the stage is set for a competitive general election in November.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
