California Governor Race 2023: A Battle of Ideologies

The upcoming race for California governor will see a face-off between Democrat Xavier Becerra, promising to continue liberal policies, and Republican Steve Hilton, aiming to reverse the state’s current direction. Hilton, a former Fox News commentator with backing from former President Donald Trump, has advanced to the general election. Becerra, previously state attorney general and a health secretary under President Joe Biden, will be his opponent.

A victory in this election means succeeding Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom. The new governor will oversee California, a state with approximately 39 million residents, home to Hollywood and a booming tech industry, and playing a crucial role in the nation’s farming. California’s economy ranks among the largest globally. The governor must address issues such as the high cost of living, housing shortages, and homelessness.

Hilton targets voter frustration with the current state management to break a two-decade streak of Democrats in statewide office, reminiscent of Arnold Schwarzenegger’s victory in 2006. Hilton positions himself as the change sought after years of single-party rule, stating, “If you’re happy with the way that California is being run, Xavier Becerra is your guy. If you want change, vote for me.” However, Republicans account for about 25% of registered voters, whereas Democrats represent 45%, presenting a challenge for Hilton.

Trump’s endorsement may have swayed GOP voters during the primaries but could hurt Hilton in the general election. Becerra counters with his role as a significant opponent to Trump’s administration since his appointment as attorney general by then-Governor Jerry Brown in 2017. As attorney general, Becerra filed over 120 legal actions against the federal government, making opposition to Trump a key part of his campaign.

California’s slow vote-counting process, characterized by mailed ballots counted within seven days post-election, delayed the determination of the general election contenders. Initially, Becerra and Hilton were confirmed as advancing candidates after the AP determined Becerra had enough votes. Tom Steyer, a rival Democrat, conceded after failing to close the gap against Hilton.

Affordability was a primary election focus. Hilton proposes income tax exemption for the initial $100,000, a first-time homebuyer loan program, and frozen tuition rates at state colleges. Becerra plans emergency declarations to tackle high energy costs, housing shortages, and frozen home insurance rates.

Both candidates boast immigrant backgrounds. Hilton moved from the UK in 2012, gaining citizenship in 2021. He previously worked with Conservative Party officials, including former Prime Minister David Cameron. Hilton humorously likens himself to the Austria-born Schwarzenegger, stating, “I know that some of you may be watching and saying, ‘Who is this guy with a funny accent?’ Well you know there was actually an immigrant who was governor of California not that long ago.”

Becerra, born to Mexican immigrants in Sacramento, highlights his underdog campaign, likening his journey to his family’s perseverance. He said, “Like my parents, I never gave up. I never stopped believing in the beaconlike goodness of California.” If elected, Becerra would become the first Latino governor since the late 1800s.

Contributions from Associated Press journalists Nicholas Riccardi in Denver and Stephen Ohlemacher in Washington.