For the first time in its history, the California Chamber of Commerce has thrown its support to a Democrat, Xavier Becerra, left, instead of a Republican, Steve Hilton, in the race for governor.

Republican Steve Hilton’s nearly non-existent chances of becoming our state’s next governor seemed to grow even dimmer this month when the California Chamber of Commerce officially endorsed Democrat Xavier Becerra. 

“California businesses depend on stability and certainty, and the world’s fourth largest economy needs a governor who can work productively with both the private sector and our state legislature,” CalChamber Board of Directors Chair Donna Lucas said in a press release explaining why CalChamber had, for the first time in its history, not thrown its backing to a Republican. 

CalChamber President and CEO Jennifer Barrera concurred. “California needs collaboration, not conflict,” she explained. “Secretary Becerra represents the best candidate to embrace that style of leadership.” 

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With the latest Berkeley/IGS Poll showing Becerra leading Hilton by more than 20 points, CalChamber’s endorsement landed like salt sprinkled on a wound. In response, Hilton accused the pro-business outfit of “sucking up to Becerra” so as to “get a few crumbs in the future.” 

Sucking up is a part of politics, man. Sorry.

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Hilton is a smart guy, but collaboration isn’t exactly the........

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