Here's who won the Hilton-Becerra debate for California governor
Los Angeles Times columnists analyze a gubernatorial debate between Democrat Xavier Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton. The authors criticize Hilton's performance, suggesting he failed to present a viable platform for California voters.
Why it matters
The debate highlights the political divide in California and the challenges faced by candidates attempting to challenge the Democratic establishment.
Democrat Xavier Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton debated for 60 minutes Wednesday night on a soundstage in Burbank. Times columnists Gustavo Arellano, Anita Chabria and Mark Z. Barabak watched the gubernatorial match-up and weigh in. Arellano: Steve Hilton came in with next to no chance of becoming the next California governor, but maybe if he focused on touting the feel-good messages he's been spouting since launching his campaign in front of the Huntington Beach Pier earlier this year — Make California Gold Again! Califordable! I'm a Legal Immigrant with a British Accent! — he might've convinced at least a few voters to go with him. Instead, Hilton debated like someone already preparing to launch a podcast or beg for his old Fox News job back after he gets walloped.
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