A video from California gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton on X is getting a lot of attention. In it, he calls out Assembly Bill 2600, a proposal by California Democrats that would use taxpayer money to pay for lawyers for people fighting deportation — even those with serious criminal convictions.
The bill was introduced by Assemblymember Mia Bonta (D-Oakland). It has triggered strong backlash online, with many Californians sharply questioning why taxpayers should foot the bill for legal fees amid the state’s tight budget.
In the video, California Assemblyman David Tangipa speaks on the subject of Assembly Bill 2600 on The Steve Hilton Show. He points out that under this bill, the taxpayer’s money will be used to represent people who are about to be deported, and he mentions that his efforts to introduce an amendment regarding excluding criminals were unsuccessful.
The post caption states that the bill would cover legal fees even for convicted murderers and child predators. The video focuses on commentary and does not show the full legislative debate or independent verification of all claims.
Public Outrage Erupts Over Assembly Bill 2600
Many commenters expressed strong opposition to using taxpayer funds for legal fees in deportation cases. One wrote, “This is the most RIDICULOUS thing I’ve ever heard. People come into this country illegally, then expect us taxpayers to pay for their legal fees to fight deportations. And California Democrats support this. Unbelievable.”
Others highlighted concerns about fairness, resource allocation, and similar policies in other states. One noted, “Oregon already did this. The state is broke, but we spent millions funding deportation defense attorneys for illegal immigrants while basic services, roads, and public safety keep getting squeezed. These people do not have a constitutional right to taxpayer-funded lawyers in civil immigration court. Absolute insanity.”
Another added, “OH MY…Stop this madness! This has discrimination written all over it. American taxpayers have the right to know where their money is going, and if money is going to legal aliens and not offered to American citizens is criminal.”
Several reactions focused on broader political and economic consequences for California, with one stating, “And this is why CA citizens will move out of state if a GOP doesn’t win CA in Nov!”
The video has joined the larger debate over California’s immigration policies and the use of public funds. As Steve Hilton campaigns for governor, Assembly Bill 2600 continues to stir controversy.
