California Gubernatorial Candidate Steve Hilton Promises $3 Gas

Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton is engaging audiences across California by directly addressing the state’s exorbitant living costs. As part of his statewide campaign, Hilton is temporarily offering gas at $3.00 a gallon to counter the rising fuel prices and high vehicle registration fees that are impacting middle-class families, sending a clear message to residents: “We don’t have to live like this.”

During a recent stop at a busy gas station in San Diego, Hilton emphasized that affordability is a key concern for voters. He pointed to the long queue for the $3 gas as evidence of how urgently residents seek relief.

“Just practical things like getting gas prices down,” he remarked, encouraging voters across all political affiliations to consider his proposals.

In an interview, Hilton committed to reversing taxes and regulations imposed by state Democrats. His campaign has been centered around the idea of “Califordable,” aiming to cut government spending, reform the education sector, and undo state policies that he argues hinder the economy.

His platform includes significant tax cuts, deregulation, and economic reforms. Notably, Hilton proposes eliminating state income tax for the first $150,000 earned by individuals and families, shifting to a flat rate afterward. He also plans to scrap state gas taxes to achieve the $3.00 per gallon goal.

Additionally, Hilton wants to cap vehicle registration fees at $73, repeal the $800 annual tax on small businesses, and reform regulations like the Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA).

Many Californians have left the state in recent years, driven away by skyrocketing living expenses and heavy taxation. Hilton believes this surge in outmigration is not linked to federal politics but is instead indicative of state leadership failures.

“They’re not fleeing Trump, they’re fleeing Democrat policies,” he asserted. “They’re moving to states run by Republicans where taxes are lower and the quality of life is better. My message is clear: we can achieve that here without needing to relocate to places like Texas or Tennessee.”

On social and legal matters, Hilton advocates for eliminating the state’s “sanctuary” status to foster cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). He also wants to shift homelessness funding from low-barrier housing initiatives toward structured recovery programs.

Describing the homelessness crisis in Los Angeles as “out of control,” he criticized the current chaotic state of the streets, vowing to prioritize this issue if elected.

Hilton also responded to critiques from his opponent, Becerra, regarding his media background. He noted that while he is actively engaging with voters daily, the Democrat candidate has often been absent from the campaign trail.

“Where’s Becerra? Is he in bed? Is he on vacation?” Hilton quipped, pointing out that they had not seen him for weeks.

Hilton further criticized Becerra’s leadership, referencing negative comments from former colleagues in the Biden administration who worked with him.

“Susan Rice called him an idiot,” Hilton said. “Others remarked that managing a large executive agency isn’t his strength. We can’t afford to have someone like that leading California.”

Becerra, formerly the Secretary of Health and Human Services under President Biden, has been focused on issues around transgender healthcare and LGBTQ+ rights, a sharp contrast to the current focus of his opponent.

The ongoing national political climate mirrors the local support Hilton is receiving, with voters gathering behind his campaign. Among them is Iranian-American voter Maryam Salehi, who expressed concerns over California’s direction.

“We need a change,” Salehi stated, “and voting Republican is our best chance at achieving freedom and showcasing the significance of Iranian voices.”

Amy Le, another supporter who’s been actively promoting Hilton’s candidacy, highlighted the need for leadership experienced in business. She firmly believes he can manage the state effectively.

“He’s putting in incredible effort, and it’s for the people,” Le explained. “He wants to restore and improve California.”

As the Republican candidate, Hilton aims to disrupt the 16 years of single-party dominance and bring a much-needed political transformation to the Golden State.