With six weeks until the November 3 election, California’s gubernatorial race remains heavily favored for Democratic candidate Xavier Becerra, who holds a 22-point lead over Republican Steve Hilton, according to the latest poll from the Public Policy Institute of California (PPIC). The survey, conducted September 4-10 among 1,098 likely voters, shows Becerra at 60% support compared to Hilton’s 38%.
Becerra meets wildfire survivors as Hilton criticizes Democratic policies
On Thursday, Becerra visited Altadena to meet with Eaton Fire survivor Gayle Ali at the site of a home destroyed in last year’s wildfires, highlighting ongoing recovery efforts. Meanwhile, Hilton held a press conference outside the state Capitol, where he criticized Democratic-backed legislation he argues increases costs for Californians. Using a stack of file boxes to represent over 1,100 bills passed by the legislature this year, Hilton pledged to veto any future bills that would raise expenses if elected.
Polling trends show narrowing gap but persistent Becerra advantage
The PPIC poll reflects a slight improvement for Hilton, who has gained 2 percentage points since the previous survey. However, Becerra’s lead remains substantial across multiple polls. A UC Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies/L.A. Times poll from August 3-9 showed Becerra ahead 55% to 37%, an 18-point margin. Earlier PPIC data from June 29-July 6 had Becerra leading by 25 points (61% to 36%), while a mid-June poll by Kreate Strategies found a similar gap.
The only poll showing a single-digit margin was commissioned by Hilton’s campaign. Conducted August 14-16 by David Wolfson, it found Becerra leading 49.2% to 41% among 912 registered voters, with 9.8% undecided. Hilton’s campaign manager, Matt Ciepielowski, cited the results in a statement, arguing they reflect voter frustration with 16 years of one-party rule in California.
Policy disputes center on cost of living and regulatory measures
Hilton has targeted bills signed by Governor Gavin Newsom, including measures to expand the state’s antitrust law and tighten rules for recycled packaging, which business groups oppose. He also criticized a law allowing Los Angeles and Contra Costa counties to raise taxes for homeless services, calling it an example of unnecessary spending.
Becerra, currently California’s Attorney General, has not yet responded publicly to Hilton’s critiques. The race will determine who succeeds Newsom, who is term-limited and considering a potential 2028 presidential run.