California Debate: Becerra and Hilton Clash Over Immigration and Cost of Living

Democrat Xavier Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton faced off on September 30 in a debate organized by CNN in California. Both are seeking to succeed Governor Gavin Newsom and presented distinct proposals amid concerns over the cost of living and immigration policy.

What was discussed about immigration?

Becerra questioned the immigration operations driven by the Trump administration and distinguished between enforcing border laws and the treatment of immigrants. He also accused Hilton of favoring immigrants who look like him, but not those who look like Becerra. Hilton rejected the claim and called it shameful, according to CalMatters.

Hilton, a former Fox News host, said he preferred to reduce the tension of the immigration debate. However, he did not directly answer whether he would attempt to reverse the state law that limits police cooperation with federal immigration authorities, according to CalMatters.

The distinction matters because the governor does not unilaterally decide who can be deported. The California Values Act, known as SB 54, restricts the use of state and local police resources to enforce federal immigration laws. The California Attorney General notes that exceptions exist and the law does not prevent investigating crimes.

Hilton also criticized Becerra’s management of the Department of Health and Human Services during the Joe Biden administration for the handling of unaccompanied migrant minors. This criticism was part of the campaign exchange and does not, by itself, constitute a conclusion about individual responsibilities.

How do they promise to reduce the cost of living?

Hilton proposed eliminating the state income tax on the first $150,000 of income and reducing regulations. Becerra argued that this tax cut would also benefit higher-income taxpayers and questioned its viability, according to CNN’s debate summary. These are campaign proposals, not approved changes.

The exchange showed two opposing explanations about costs. Hilton attributed part of the problem to government regulations and taxes, while Becerra highlighted other economic factors.