A Republican candidate for California governor faces online mockery after promoting a “street taco” from a popular fast-food chain in a viral social media video.
The Controversial Campaign Stop
Steve Hilton shared the clip on Saturday following a campaign event in Barstow. In the video, he stands by a freeway in a button-down shirt, holding the item and asking, “Why am I holding a Barstow street taco right now? Because I just bought it at this historic location.” The camera pans to a Del Taco sign, marking the chain’s original restaurant that opened in 1964 and led to over 500 locations nationwide. Hilton wraps up by saying, “There it is. My Barstow street taco. I’m gonna enjoy.” The post quickly gained over 700,000 views on X.
Wave of Criticism on Social Media
Hundreds of comments criticized Hilton for labeling fast-food as authentic local fare, with many calling him a “fake Californian.” One user wrote, “He calls it a ‘Barstow street taco.’ Instantly disqualifying!” Hilton responded, “It’s what they call it!” The user fired back, “‘They’ must not be Californians (much like yourself) if ‘they’ think a hard shell Del Taco abomination is an authentic street taco. Stand down, sir, you are not fit for this fight.”
Others joined in: “Lol that’s not a ‘street taco’ at all,” one commenter stated. Another added, “I love Del Taco and the Barstow location but that is in no way, shape, or form a street taco.” Some highlighted his British accent, questioning, “Is this guy British?” A few supporters praised the spot, with one noting, “Hands down the Best Del Taco! Hope you visit our Victorville area.”
Defining a True Street Taco
Street tacos originate from Mexico’s culinary tradition, featuring small, soft tortillas filled with premium meats from roadside stands or carts, not chain restaurants, according to Mexican eatery La Vaka.
Hilton’s Path to the Race
Born in London, the 56-year-old Hilton studied at Oxford University and served as head of strategy for former U.K. Prime Minister David Cameron. He relocated to California with his family, became a U.S. citizen in 2021, taught at Stanford University, and hosted a Fox News show until 2017.
Hilton launched his Republican gubernatorial bid in April, entering a competitive field to replace term-limited Gov. Gavin Newsom. President Donald Trump endorsed him last month. Recent polls show Hilton rising, particularly after former Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell exited the race amid sexual-misconduct allegations, which Swalwell denies.
On Wednesday, Hilton joined six other candidates—five Democrats—in a Los Angeles televised debate. California’s open primary on June 2 places all contenders on one ballot, with the top two advancing to November. A victory would make Hilton the state’s third foreign-born governor, after Arnold Schwarzenegger of Austria and John Downey of Ireland.
