California Gov. Gavin Newsom urged candidates nationwide to focus on affordability, lower costs, and higher wages. Steve Hilton attacked that message, arguing Newsom’s record in California contradicted his national affordability pitch. Hilton called Newsom an “utter charlatan” and cited several economic measures while urging voters to reject Democrats.
Newsom shared the video on X, where Hilton responded directly to the post.
In the video, Newsom said he repeatedly hears two concerns: “affordability and fight.” He said voters want leaders who will fight for them with “clear conviction” and “strength.”
He argued every issue should be viewed through whether it lowers costs and increases wages. Newsom called that standard a challenge for every candidate and incumbent.
Hilton answered, “Except in California you utter charlatan.” He then claimed California had the highest cost of living, poverty rate, and unemployment rate.
He concluded, “Yeah, the choice really is clear: don’t vote Democrat if you want a better life.”
Gavin Newsom Affordability Message Sparks California Debate
The exchange quickly widened into a broader argument over whether California’s record supports Newsom’s message on lowering everyday costs.
“We are the highest in all the wrong categories due to Greasy Gavs.” One user wrote, “Newsom can keep doing the national TV bit about Democrats ‘lowering costs.’ Look at the states they actually run.”
Others focused specifically on Newsom’s record. “This guy has never tried to lower costs! The democrat party only knows higher taxes,” one response stated. Another wrote, “Lower cost my [expletive]! Car registration is $1000 combined in our household! But don’t worry they are ‘fighting’ for our affordability!”
Some users challenged Hilton instead. “Highest cost of living: Hawaii. Highest poverty rate: Louisiana. Highest unemployment rate: DC followed by Connecticut and Oregon,” one wrote. “None of those things apply to California, which you should know if you’re running for governor.”
Another asked, “Why don’t YOU tell CA, how you’re planning to lower inflation, reduce the cost of housing, education, healthcare, energy, Hilton.”
Affordability remains central to the political fight over California’s record. Newsom and Hilton continue to frame the state’s economic performance very differently.
