Hilton promises $3 gas and sewage fix in Oceanside

Steve Hilton pledged to reduce California gasoline prices to three dollars per gallon and resolve the Tijuana River sewage issue during a campaign stop in Oceanside on Monday. The Republican candidate for governor spoke to supporters with eight days remaining until the November 3 election.

Hilton outlined specific economic and social targets for his administration. He stated his goal is to lower taxes and increase law enforcement efforts to address crime. His central promise involves ending mass homelessness within the state by the end of 2027. During the hour-long address, he described his Democratic opponent, Xavier Becerra, as continuing a trend of excessive government regulation.

"Have you had enough of this bloated bureaucratic nanny-state government bossing us around from morning till night," Hilton said to the audience. He emphasized the border environment as a key priority, noting that the Tijuana River flow affects local residents. "We will stop the sewage from Mexico one way or another," he said, which drew strong applause from the group.

Attendees expressed support based on their personal experiences with state services. Terrie St. John, who voted early alongside her husband Jerry, cited the candidate’s focus on street conditions and shelter systems. "I like the fact that he wants to clean up the streets and help the homeless and start to have the state get back to where it should be," St. John said. Diana Parkman, a resident of Vista, highlighted the energy sector, specifically the plan to resume drilling to lower fuel costs.

The event also included remarks from other Republican candidates, including Jim Desmond and contenders for state controller and lieutenant governor. Kari Barrera, a Democrat in the crowd, said she was considering a switch in votes after years of supporting the party. "We used to be a party united in one cause which was helping the underdog, and I'm not seeing that anymore," Barrera said. Her presence reflected a segment of voters looking for a change in direction ahead of the midterms.

Xavier Becerra’s campaign responded to the rally with a written statement. A campaign spokesperson said that Donald Trump continues to raise costs while Hilton supports those policies. The statement noted that Becerra worked for a decade to make health care and prescription drugs more affordable. "Becerra is ready to lead California forward," the spokesperson said.

Election Day is scheduled for Tuesday, November 3. Voters in California will choose their governor and other state officials on that date. Hilton concluded his remarks by thanking the crowd and inviting them to share their enthusiasm with neighbors who have not yet voted.