Hilton outlines $24 billion homeless plan

California voters face a tight race this Tuesday as Republican challenger Steve Hilton pitches a specific economic plan to address homelessness. Hilton argues that the state has already allocated substantial funds but failed to deploy them effectively.

Hilton proposes constructing homeless recovery centers across the state. These facilities would provide mental health care, addiction treatment, and job training. He plans to build the first center on a military base outside San Diego. Hilton estimates the state may need up to 30 of these centers to manage the crisis.

The candidate claims the necessary funding already exists in the state budget. He cited a state auditor report that identified $24 billion previously spent on homelessness initiatives. Hilton stated that he intends to use that money properly rather than seeking new appropriations.

During an interview with ABC7 political reporter Josh Haskell, Hilton explained his strategy for rapid implementation. He said he will ask city mayors to identify their immediate needs for the first few months of his term. He plans to use that period to get the recovery centers up and running. Hilton described homelessness as a crisis that requires immediate action.

Hilton addressed questions about long-term housing for residents of these centers. He stated that individuals would move into permanent housing or return to families in other states. He rejected the idea that the recovery centers would serve as permanent living situations for everyone.

Hilton is campaigning aggressively across the state with a focus on cost-of-living issues. He promised to guarantee $3 per gallon for gas. He said he would fund this guarantee by removing hidden gas taxes currently directed toward the state's high-speed rail project and the carbon fuel standard.

The Republican candidate trails Democrat Xavier Becerra by 24 points in a PPIC poll released Tuesday night. Hilton acknowledged the polling gap while criticizing the incumbent party's approach. He told voters it is acceptable to vote for a Republican in California this year, citing a need for change.