On Saturday, as early voting commenced in California, major political figures were actively campaigning, hoping to secure voter support ahead of Election Day. Each candidate presented distinct solutions to the pressing issues of affordability and public safety in the state.
Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton took his campaign to the Inland Empire, advocating for tax cuts aimed at assisting working families, which he claims have suffered under what he describes as 16 years of one-party governance.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass introduced initiatives designed to aid residents facing utility bill difficulties. In contrast, her opponent, Nithya Raman, called for an audit of the city’s power and water department.
Meanwhile, Democratic gubernatorial nominee Xavier Becerra was absent from the campaign trail, having spent the week criticizing the state’s approach to homelessness and addressing the performance of nonprofits reliant on state funding.
As California voters start to cast their ballots in the lead-up to the November 3 election, here’s a look at where the main candidates currently stand.
Steve Hilton: Proposing tax cuts and energy reforms
Hilton, vying for the governor’s seat as a Republican, was set to hold a rally at Silverlakes Park in Norco, joined by key supporters including lieutenant gubernatorial candidate Gloria Romero and Rep. Ken Calvert.
The rally aimed to galvanize voters in the Inland Empire, where the costs of living, public safety, and affordability are significant issues. Hilton pledged to make the first $150,000 of income tax-free, reduce electricity bills by 50%, lower gas prices to $3 a gallon, and eliminate the California Department of Motor Vehicles. Additionally, he expressed intentions to pause California’s carbon market, labeling it ineffective.
Hilton’s strategy for tackling homelessness involves establishing large recovery centers and clearing encampments when individuals refuse assistance. He also defended his views on artificial intelligence and the expansion of nuclear energy during a recent appearance on HBO.
Xavier Becerra: A call for stronger action on homelessness
Becerra, the Democratic nominee for governor, refrained from campaigning on Saturday but advocated throughout the week for a tougher stance on the homelessness crisis in California. He proposed measures to prevent homelessness and intended to hold nonprofits accountable if they failed to use state funds effectively.
Polls showed Becerra with a substantial lead over Hilton, capturing 60% support against Hilton’s 33%. On Saturday, Becerra launched a digital campaign to encourage voter participation ahead of the election.
Karen Bass: Focus on utility relief and public services
Bass announced a relief initiative on October 20 to alleviate utility costs for residents, halting shutoffs until the end of 2026 and allowing people to pay based on their financial situation. This came in response to growing scrutiny over rising utility expenses in Los Angeles.
In addition, Bass participated in the groundbreaking for a significant Metro expansion project and initiated a new unified call center for crisis response, while aiming to streamline 911 dispatch hiring processes.
Nithya Raman: Advocating for audits and navigating controversies
Raman, challenging Bass for the mayor’s position, proposed a thorough audit of the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, arguing that utility costs surged by 40% under her opponent. She secured an endorsement from Supervisor Lindsey Horvath but also worked to counter criticism regarding her comments about past LAPD practices.
Commencement of early voting in California
Voters across California can begin to cast their ballots in person in the lead-up to Election Day, with early voting available in counties taking part in the Voter’s Choice Act. Those eligible can also drop off mail-in ballots and update their registration information at specified voting centers.
Counties participating include Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Diego, among others. With early voting underway, candidates are actively conveying their differing visions to Californians as the November 3 election draws nearer.
