Hilton pledges to end mass homelessness by 2027 in Oceanside rally

Steve Hilton delivered his final major campaign message to voters in Oceanside on Monday, eight days before the California midterm elections. The Republican gubernatorial candidate addressed an energetic crowd for approximately one hour, pausing to take photographs with supporters before delivering his closing remarks.

Hilton outlined a platform centered on lowering taxes and reducing gas prices. He stated that his administration would crack down on crime and eliminate mass homelessness in the state by the end of 2027. He characterized his opponent, Xavier Becerra, as a continuation of the current political status quo.

During the speech, Hilton challenged the audience with a direct appeal regarding the size of state government. He asked, "Have you had enough of this bloated bureaucratic nanny-state government bossing us around from morning till night?"

The rally produced its loudest response when Hilton addressed the Tijuana River sewage crisis. He committed to resolving the issue, declaring, "We will stop the sewage from Mexico one way or another."

Supporters at the event expressed strong confidence in Hilton's ability to manage state affairs. Jerry and Terrie St. John, a couple from Oceanside, said they had already cast their early ballots for the candidate. Terrie St. John noted that she supports Hilton's goals to clean up streets and assist the homeless.

Diana Parkman, a resident of Vista, said she has followed Hilton for years and supports his proposals. She specifically cited his plans to resume oil drilling and lower gas prices to three dollars per gallon as key factors in her decision. In the audience, Kari Barrera, a Democrat, said she was voting for Hilton after feeling the Democratic Party no longer represented her interests.

Xavier Becerra's campaign responded to Hilton's rally with a statement from a spokesperson. The statement accused Donald Trump of driving up costs and described Hilton as a supporter of those policies. The spokesperson argued that Becerra spent the last decade making health care and prescription drugs more affordable and is ready to lead the state. Before Hilton took the stage, other Republican candidates, including Jim Desmond, also spoke to the crowd.

Election Day is scheduled for Tuesday, November 3.