Steve Hilton expressed strong criticism towards Xavier Becerra, the Democratic candidate for governor of California, during an interview on Newsweek’s The 1600 podcast. Hilton called Becerra “pathetic” and “a jerk,” stating that Becerra relies on insults without substantial arguments. This tension followed a debate where Becerra, a Mexican American, accused Hilton of favoring immigrants who resemble him, an accusation Hilton found absurd.
Hilton, originally from London, highlighted his refugee background, explaining that he understands the immigrant experience. He accused Becerra of being inactive and unresponsive to public engagements, such as missing a Los Angeles Times forum, which he attributed to unsubstantiated scheduling conflicts.
Hilton, an ex-adviser to UK Prime Minister David Cameron, and a former Fox News host, became a U.S. citizen in 2021 and is aiming to become the first Republican to secure a statewide office in California since 2006. He has campaigned extensively across California, advocating for change and balance in a state dominated by one-party rule for 16 years.
Addressing his relationship with Donald Trump, Hilton emphasized his independence, distancing himself from complete alignment with the former president. He argued for diverse party representation to prevent monopolistic governance.
In debates, Hilton countered Becerra’s references to Trump, insisting that California’s current state isn’t Trump’s doing but rather the result of long-term Democratic governance. He contrasted gas prices in California with the national average to support his point.
Hilton’s platform includes tax reforms proposing no state taxes for earnings up to $150,000 and a flat 8% rate thereafter. While some criticize this proposal as financially unfeasible, Hilton devised funding strategies, including curtailing high-speed rail funding and reducing Medi-Cal fraud. He presented tax cuts as beneficial for the economy by having the government take less from citizens.
Critics also questioned whether Hilton’s proposed flat tax rate benefits the wealthy, such as OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. Hilton argued that current high tax rates are driving businesses out of California. He also aims to remove an $800 fee imposed on small businesses before they earn revenue, a charge he deems as extortionate.
The “Just Try It” advertisement by Hilton encourages trying new political directions. Despite diverse reactions, he defended it as part of a larger campaign strategy advocating balance in governance amid long-standing one-party control.
On technology, Hilton supports pausing AI use in education until its proper role is defined. He is critical of uninformed political stances on AI regulation. Despite his limited personal tech use, highlighted by his use of a flip phone, he stressed the need for informed AI governance.
Hilton also discussed his 2016 advocacy for Brexit, affirming its democratic significance but criticizing the UK’s post-vote management. He compared the political challenges in California to those in the UK, highlighting similar systemic issues.
Hilton concluded by emphasizing California’s need to regain its innovative spirit, criticizing the current state governance for overly controlling policies. He urged a return to what he sees as the true essence of California driven by individual initiative and less governmental interference.
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