Xavier Becerra might not be thrilled about his new nickname, but Steve Hilton is doing his best to make it catch on.
In an interesting twist, Hilton has taken a jab aimed at Becerra during the 2024 election cycle and turned it into a campaign tactic before the CNN debate on Wednesday. He launched a website calling his Democratic opponent “Bitch–ass Becerra.”
The nickname reportedly comes from former White House advisor Susan Rice, who used it during her time in the Biden administration. The website criticizes Becerra’s record, highlighting issues from his time as California attorney general and U.S. health secretary. It draws heavily on negative comments made by former Democratic colleagues.
The California Post indicated that doubts about Becerra’s qualifications for governor are not unfounded. A former associate alleged he made disparaging comments about migrant children, referring to them as “little Juanitos and Juanitas.”
“I do not think he is qualified to be the governor,” said one former colleague. “I don’t think he’s qualified to be the boss of anything.”
There’s also talk about Becerra’s demeanor during sensitive discussions about migrant children, with comments pointing to his “dead-fish eyes” and a perceived lack of emotion. It’s all rather harsh, but that’s the political game, isn’t it?
Becerra’s campaign has dismissed these allegations, particularly about the remarks on children, calling them “an outright fabrication.” A spokesperson mentioned that the discontent from former colleagues stems from “jealousy.”
On his campaign site, Hilton portrays a negative image of Becerra, noting affiliations with various organizations and linking him to several societal issues. The site’s messaging directly accuses Becerra of inaction and complicity in matters like fraud and increased costs of living.
In a previous conversation with the press, Hilton suggested that Becerra lacks the necessary mental sharpness for the governor position, emphasizing a need for Californians to be aware of the potential consequences.
Multiple criticisms highlight Becerra’s effect on policies related to migrant safeguards and rising energy prices, with sections of the site stating that even Democrats are unhappy with him.
One notable critique came from former Biden administration official Xochitl Hinojosa, whose comments on CNN about Becerra not being able to stand up to Trump took many by surprise.
Furthermore, Axios revealed past disagreements between Rice and Becerra, suggesting that tensions existed during their work together.
Becerra is also facing some backlash on social media following a cringe-worthy interview with a local correspondent, where he failed to correct an incorrect name regarding an important figure in San Francisco. His responses, or lack thereof, didn’t help his case much.
Heading into the debate, a poll indicated that Becerra had a commanding lead, with 60% support compared to Hilton’s 38%. However, the pressure is on—if he stumbles during the debate, Hilton’s nickname may stick around longer than either of them would like.
