Hilton Criticizes Chamber of Commerce for Endorsing Becerra
California gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton sharply criticized the endorsement of Democrat Xavier Becerra by the Chamber of Commerce, labeling it an “embarrassing” display of leadership failure in comments made to the Post.
Becerra is the first Democratic gubernatorial candidate to receive an endorsement from the Chamber, which has a long-standing history and aims to represent major employers. This decision came after the powerful business organization met with both Becerra and Hilton.
CalChamber President and CEO Jennifer Barrera emphasized the need for “cooperation, not confrontation” in the state.
However, many viewed this endorsement as unexpected given CalChamber’s typically Republican stance and Becerra’s status as an establishment Democrat. Hilton accused the group of betraying its own members, stating, “This is truly pathetic behavior from California’s so-called business leaders.”
Hilton expressed concern that Becerra would perpetuate anti-business policies that could harm California’s economic landscape. He warned of “higher taxes, more regulation, and increased power for unions and trial lawyers,” claiming these factors make operating a business in California increasingly difficult.
The Chamber last endorsed a candidate in 2010, supporting former eBay executive Meg Whitman, who unsuccessfully ran for governor. Before that, in 2006, it backed Arnold Schwarzenegger’s re-election.
Hilton went on to criticize the Chamber for not advocating strongly enough for the changes needed in California. Instead, he accused them of playing the Sacramento insider game, suggesting they were trying to gain favor by aligning with Becerra.
He described Becerra as “an underachieving establishment mediocre,” yet he promised to advocate for the business community regardless of the Chamber’s stance. A former Fox News host, Hilton is seen as an underdog in his upcoming match against Becerra in November. He has previously voiced opposition to significant contributions from companies like Chevron and Meta.
This week, Hilton unveiled a tax proposal aimed at eliminating income taxes for households earning up to $150,000 and suggested raising the flat rate to 8%.
