# California Gubernatorial Race: Hilton vs Becerra

> Hilton gains ground but Becerra holds 22-point lead in California polls.
- Title: California Gubernatorial Race: Hilton vs Becerra · Newsweek
- Summary: Hilton gains ground but Becerra holds 22-point lead in California polls. Hilton trails Becerra by 22 points in latest California gubernatorial polls with 7…
- Keywords: california, gubernatorial, steve hilton, xavier becerra, ppic, affordability, midterms, california governor, democrat, republican, cost of living, governor
- Source: Newsweek — https://newsweek.com/steve-hilton-vs-becerra-latest-california-polls-midterms-12456366
- Published: 2026-09-17T16:33:03+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: california, gubernatorial, steve hilton, xavier becerra, ppic, affordability, midterms, california governor, democrat, republican, cost of living, governor
## California Gubernatorial Race
Hilton trails Becerra by 22 points in latest polls.
## PPIC Poll Results
Becerra leads 60 percent to 38 percent among 1,098 likely voters.
## Hilton Campaign Response
Hilton gains support as Californians seek change.
## Historical Poll Gaps
Becerra leads by 25 points in June poll, 18 points in August poll.
## Hilton's Campaign Strategy
Promises $3 gas and affordable housing for voters.
## Prediction Markets
Becerra has 96 percent chance to win November election.
## Affordability Concerns
65 percent say affordability is very important to their vote.
## What Happens Next
Hilton challenges Becerra to debates before November.
## Key takeaway

Hilton trails Becerra by 22 points in latest California gubernatorial polls with 7 weeks until midterms.