Steve Hilton conceded California’s governor’s race to Democrat Xavier Becerra on Tuesday night, telling supporters gathered in Garden Grove that Republicans would retake the governor’s mansion in 2030.
“[In] 2030, we elect a Republican governor in California,” Hilton told the crowd. “But here’s my message to Xavier Becerra: enjoy it while it lasts.”
The Associated Press called the race for Becerra early Tuesday night. By Wednesday morning, with 59% of the vote counted, Becerra led Hilton 64% to 36%.
Hilton also offered a more conciliatory note in his concession speech. “We have a new governor in California,” he said. “I know it’s not the one you wished for, but I do wish Xavier Becerra well. We want our state to be governed properly.”
The loss continues a long drought for California Republicans, who have not won the governor’s office since 2006. Becerra, a former Biden administration official, held a substantial polling lead over Hilton for much of the campaign.
Democrats had a strong night across California, sweeping statewide offices and picking up several key U.S. House seats in the state. Nationally, Democrats also won majorities in both the House and Senate.
Becerra Makes History
Becerra becomes the first Latino governor of California in roughly 150 years after winning a crowded Democratic primary field before facing Hilton in the general election.
In his victory speech, Becerra reflected on his family’s background and the challenges of the past two years. “What a great night to be a Californian. What a great night to be an American,” he said. “To be the son of immigrants from a union household to be standing in victory with all of you. Now, I’m not gonna sugarcoat it. These past two years have been tough: higher prices, more wars, corruption and lawlessness. But we hung in there; fought back. It felt like Mission: Impossible. We knew it was mission necessary.”
Becerra will succeed term-limited Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom, who has been widely discussed as a potential presidential candidate, when he steps down in January.
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