Steve Hilton, a Republican candidate for governor in California, is taking his campaign into an unconventional territory—dinner tables across the state.
He’s inviting voters to join him for dinner, where he’ll assist in cooking, enjoy a meal together, and discuss the issues impacting their families.
A recent video showcases Hilton’s dinner visit with Valen and Sandra Guerra from Chula Vista.
In the video, Hilton hands Valen a bottle that looks like champagne, cheerfully saying, “That’s what we’re going to start doing on election night.”
Hilton expressed that he finds helping families prepare their meals and sharing time with them feels more meaningful than the traditional town halls he’s hosted in the past.
As they sat down to eat, the conversation quickly shifted to the struggles of California’s high taxes and the increasing cost of living.
Valen pointed out, “I remember someone saying to me, ‘The problem with California is that as soon as things get a little tough, everyone just moves away.’”
The Guerra family believes that residents should stay and advocate for change, and Hilton is helping to shift that narrative.
Raised in Chula Vista, Sandra reflected on how her city has transformed from a place of prosperity to one of hardship.
“I’ve watched this city go from its beauty, its economy, its surplus economy to a deficit,” she shared.
Through a section on his website titled “Dinner with Steve,” Hilton encourages voters to enter for a chance to invite him over for dinner.
The Guerra family decided to apply after seeing an invitation, thinking it would be a fun opportunity.
One family member expressed a blend of frustration and hope, saying, “Where do I even start?” listing issues like income taxes and the sky-high gasoline prices.
They shared that making a living in California is tough, and after fifteen years of the same challenges, it feels like change is needed.
Hilton emphasized on social media that this dinner initiative is completely legitimate, offering voters a chance to connect with him personally.
“It’s not a scam!” he insisted. “We will come to your home, help you prepare dinner, and discuss issues that matter to your family.”
He teasingly mentioned that an upcoming episode of “Dinner with Steve” would be released soon and encouraged participation for anyone wanting to host the next event.
California’s Republican contenders argue that eradication of income taxes for many could help put extra money in residents’ pockets in a state known for its high living costs.
However, Hilton faces significant challenges in his campaign against the state’s Democratic rival, Xavier Becerra.
