Xavier Becerra expands lead over Steve Hilton in California governor's race, poll shows

SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- Democrat Xavier Becerra has widened his lead over Republican Steve Hilton in California's race for governor, according to a new poll released Thursday by the UC Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies.

The poll found that 58% of likely voters support Becerra, compared with 33% for Hilton. The 25-point advantage represents a seven-point increase from August.

Hilton has struggled to gain ground in the race despite campaigning on lowering gas prices, taxes and energy costs.

The poll also found that 48% of likely voters view Becerra favorably, while 40% view him unfavorably. Hilton, meanwhile, is "viewed more negatively than positively by a 51% to 35% margin," the poll said.

Cost of living remains the top issue for voters, according to the poll. About 44% of respondents identified "reducing the cost of living" as their biggest concern. Another 37% said their top priority is "fighting against Trump administration policies."

The online poll was conducted Sept. 15-20 in English and Spanish and surveyed 4,512 likely voters.