California’s high-stakes gubernatorial race took a heated turn as Democratic incumbent Gavin Newsom’s likely successors—former Health Secretary Xavier Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton, a former Fox News host—locked horns in a sharp, hour-long CNN debate. The two rivals clashed over key issues including the economy, immigration, and healthcare, offering starkly contrasting visions in what was billed as the only scheduled face-off before voters decide on a successor. With the governor’s seat up for grabs, the debate highlighted deep divisions as the candidates pushed back on opposing policies in a closely watched election cycle.
Former Health Secretary Xavier Becerra (D) and Republican Steve Hilton, a former Fox News host, clashed on the debate stage Wednesday as they jostle in a contentious race to replace California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D). The rivals sparred over the economy, immigration and healthcare in an hourlong CNN debate, the first and only scheduled just...
