California gubernatorial candidates offer competing housing plans

Voters head to the polls on Nov. 3, 2026, to choose between Democrat Xavier Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton as the successor to term-limited Governor Gavin Newsom. The election concludes a campaign season marked by distinct approaches to the state's persistent housing and cost-of-living challenges.

Xavier Becerra, the former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, has campaigned on a platform centered on defending existing state policies and healthcare access.

Steve Hilton, a former Fox News contributor, has framed his candidacy around what he calls positive populism. Hilton has pledged to reduce the cost of living by cutting taxes and regulations, arguing that the state needs to end what he describes as one-party rule. He has characterized his campaign as a movement of the people against the political establishment.

Financial disclosures show that both candidates have raised significant funds for the final stretch of the race, with Becerra reporting more than $38 million and Hilton raising more than $33 million. The candidates emerged from a June 2, 2026, primary where Becerra received 28% of the vote and Hilton secured 25%.