Hilton rallies in Oceanside: One week left in CA race

Voters in San Diego County had a clear choice presented to them eight days before the midterm election. Republican Steve Hilton stood before a crowd in Oceanside on Monday to deliver his final pitch for the California governorship. The event served as the centerpiece of his closing campaign efforts ahead of the November 3 vote.

Hilton spoke for approximately one hour, outlining a platform focused on lowering taxes, reducing gas prices, and increasing enforcement against crime. He pledged to eliminate mass homelessness in the state by the end of 2027. The candidate framed his opponent, Xavier Becerra, as a continuation of current administrative policies that he described as excessive.

The audience reacted strongly to Hilton's specific promise to address the Tijuana River sewage problem. He stated that his administration would stop the flow of waste from Mexico regardless of the method required. This issue has been a persistent local concern for residents near the border.

Supporters at the rally expressed confidence in Hilton’s leadership. Terrie St. John, who voted early with her husband Jerry, said she supports his plans to clean up streets and assist the homeless population. Diana Parkman, a resident of Vista, cited her long-term support for the candidate and his stance on oil drilling as key reasons for her vote. She noted that lower gas prices, specifically a goal of three dollars per gallon, would help families.

Some attendees defied party lines. Kari Barrera, a Democrat, said she was switching her support to Hilton because she felt the Democratic Party had lost focus on helping ordinary citizens. She described her decision as a gamble for a different direction in state government.

Becerra’s campaign responded to the rally in a written statement. A spokesperson said that Donald Trump drives up costs while Hilton supports those policies. The statement highlighted Becerra’s decade of work to make healthcare and prescription drugs more affordable, asserting that he is prepared to lead the state.

Hilton shared the stage with other Republican candidates, including Jim Desmond and contenders for state controller and lieutenant governor. The campaign event concluded with the crowd prepared for the final days of the election cycle.

Reporters reached out to the Becerra campaign for a reaction to the specific promises made during the Oceanside speech. The campaign’s written response focused on the national political dynamic and the candidate’s past record in healthcare.