L.A. Times Politics is reporting that Xavier Becerra is widely expected to become California's next governor, a projection based on the state's overwhelming Democratic voter advantage. The outlet noted that Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents significantly outnumber Republicans in California, making the GOP brand "political poison" in the state.
Republican challenger Steve Hilton, endorsed by President Donald J Trump, is waging an energetic campaign, making multiple appearances daily and frequently updating his social media accounts. Hilton's campaign spokesman, Hector Barajas, said Hilton is committed to campaigning across the state, including in traditionally liberal areas like San Francisco.
In contrast, Becerra has adopted a more measured approach since finishing first in the June 2 primary. He has offered modest proposals, including a plan for two free hours of electricity daily for low-income households and a call for stricter artificial intelligence regulation. Becerra denied taking voters for granted, telling reporters during a walking tour in Los Angeles' Little Tokyo that he would be "out on the coast" if he were trying to coast.
L.A. Times Politics said that while Becerra and Hilton shared a stage multiple times during the primary, they have not appeared together since. Several news organizations and groups have offered to host a face-to-face debate or forum, and Hilton has agreed to all invitations, according to his campaign.