Xavier Becerra and Steve Hilton, the candidates running to be California’s next governor, debated on October 1, 2026, focusing on issues such as taxes, immigration, and the regulation of artificial intelligence. The debate, hosted by CNN, occurred just days before voters in California, a predominantly Democratic state, begin receiving their ballots. Hilton, a former Fox News host endorsed by Donald Trump, criticized Becerra, a former congressman and health and human services secretary under the Biden administration, for not actively campaigning and for taking voters for granted.
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Candidates for California Governor Debate Key Issues
In a debate held on October 1, 2026, California gubernatorial candidates Xavier Becerra and Steve Hilton discussed taxes, immigration, and artificial intelligence regulation. Hilton criticized Becerra for his campaign efforts as voters prepare to receive their ballots.
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Steve Hilton, Xavier Becerra clash in testy California governor’s race debate
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Candidates for California Governor Debate Key Issues