Steve Hilton speaks with Action News, details priorities on water, gas prices in bid for CA governor

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Steve Hilton, the Republican candidate for California governor, says his campaign focuses on lowering costs for families, easing water regulations for farmers and redirecting spending from the state's high-speed rail project.

Speaking about his campaign message with roughly 70 days remaining in the gubernatorial race, Hilton emphasized what he described as practical solutions to issues affecting Californians.

"The message is very practical and positive: $3 gas, cut utility bills in half, your first $150k is tax-free, starter homes for young families. Simple, common sense things that everyone can agree with," Hilton said.

Hilton is seeking support from Central California voters by focusing on local concerns, including water regulations affecting farmers. He criticized current water delivery policies and said he would change the state leadership overseeing water resources.

"The excuses that they're using to reduce the deliveries of water to our farmers don't add up. So that's another thing I can change very quickly by putting new people in the state water resources control board," Hilton said.

Hilton also addressed fuel costs, saying Californians continue to face some of the highest gas prices in the country. He said that, if elected, he would suspend fuel standards and reduce what he described as regulatory costs.

"The fact that it's not just the gas tax but all these hidden taxes, like the low carbon fuel standard and the cap and investment program. Guess where that money goes... it goes to pay for High Speed Rail, which is another disaster. All this can be changed by the governor and I will change it and get us down to $3 gas," Hilton said.

A longtime critic of California's high-speed rail project, Hilton said he would redirect funding from the project to other priorities, including expanding Highway 99.

"My opponent Xavier Becerra, here in Fresno a couple of weeks ago, said we're going to finish it on time and on budget. What planet is he on? On time was six years ago; they've already spent half the $30 billion, and they haven't laid any tracks," Hilton said.

Hilton also addressed President Donald Trump's endorsement of his campaign, acknowledging that some voters may not support the president while urging them to back his candidacy.

"Of course it's true there are millions of moderate democrats and independents, many who will be watching who can't stand the president. I understand that and think of themselves as not republicans but that's ok, you don't have to change your party, you just have to vote for change in this election," Hilton said.

In addition to his economic proposals, Hilton announced a plan that would prohibit families from having to pay for essential school supplies. He said that, if elected, the state would cover the cost of items such as pencils, paper and glue for students.

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