Republican California gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton confronted Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear on Friday over Beshear’s praise for Democratic governors and their achievements. The exchange took place on HBO’s ‘Real Time with Bill Maher.’ Hilton pointed to the ongoing issues with California Governor Gavin Newsom’s high-speed rail project as an example of unfulfilled promises.
Beshear had argued that Democratic governors have tangible results that could differentiate them from former President Donald Trump. He emphasized the importance of accomplishments such as housing projects.
‘What Democratic governors have are receipts,’ Beshear stated. ‘You can look at, have you built the housing?’
Hilton queried, “Have you built the high-speed rail?” highlighting the unfinished state of California’s project. Maher acknowledged Hilton’s point, noting that it could be a weak spot for Newsom.
Hilton’s campaign manager, Matt Ciepielowski, criticized the ongoing investment in the rail project in a statement. He highlighted the project’s significant delays and costs, asserting that Californians haven’t yet benefitted.
‘If Andy Beshear thinks California’s high-speed rail is something to brag about, he should try buying a ticket. Billions spent, years behind schedule, and Californians still can’t ride it,’ Ciepielowski said.
He added that Hilton plans to end state funding for the project if elected.
California State Senator Tony Strickland, a Republican from Huntington Beach, also criticized Newsom’s management of the project. He pointed out findings from an investigation into taxpayers’ funds being misused.
Strickland stated that project consultants spent public money on luxury travel, despite ongoing scandals and the project’s exaggerated expenses.
The high-speed rail initiative, approved for nearly $10 billion in bonds by voters in 2008, is well behind schedule and over budget. Current estimates place the total cost at approximately $126 billion, far exceeding initial projections.
A 2026 business plan by the California High-Speed Rail Authority anticipated a cost of $35.7 billion for the initial segment from Merced to Bakersfield, with a completion date aimed for 2033.
Following a September investigation, the project faced further scrutiny over financial practices. About $81,000 in travel expenses and $543,000 in other charges were deemed suspect.
The Rail Authority responded with increased oversight and corrective actions, aiming to recover funds identified as improper. Despite the criticism, officials maintain that construction is advancing, citing the completion of major structures and several miles of guideway in the Central Valley.
Fox News Digital reached out to both Governor Newsom and the California High-Speed Rail Authority for their reaction to these developments, but they did not respond immediately.