The $28 per hour wage provision sparks union opposition

Assembly Bill 1751, introduced by Fullerton Democrat Sharon Quirk-Silva, aims to accelerate the construction of townhouses-dense, multistory residential units-by streamlining regulatory approvals. In return, developers would be required to pay workers a minimum of $28 per hour, significantly above the statewide minimum wage of $16.90.

The bill intends to boost housing supply and worker compensation, but it has sparked unexpeced opposition from the State Building and Construction Trades Council, a powerful umbrella group representing skilled trade unions such as electricians and plumbers.

The trades argue that the mandated wage could undermine prevailing wage standards, which are higher union-scale rates commonly applied to publicly funded projects. Quirk-Silva has insisted the bill does not alter prevailing wage laws, stating, "It does not replace prevailing wage.It does not undercut prevailing wage. This bill leaves prevailing wage exactly where it stands in current law."

However, the trades remain skeptical, citing concerns about setting a precedent that could weaken union bargaining power and erode worker protections in future housing development efforts.

A delicate balance in the California gubernatorial race

Steve Hilton's endorsement of Trump and affirmation of Biden's 2020 win have sparked controversy in California's gubernatorial race. Hilton, who received an endorsement from former President Donald Trump, described it as "a deep honor" during a televised debate at KRON Studios in San Francisco on April 22, 2026.

However, his stance on the 2020 presidential election has drawn attention. Initially, in an interview with LAist host Austin Cross, Hilton avoided directly challenging Trump's false claims that the election was stolen. yet, in a subsequent conversation with Mantle, Hilton clearly stated that President Joe Biden won the election, saying, "Now there's no question, everybody knows that President Joe Biden won the 2020 election, and I don't think there's any doubt about that."

This shift highlights the delicate balance Republican candidates in California must strike between aligning with Trump's base and appealing to a broader electorate.

The prolonged vote counting process

Hilton also commented on California's universal vote-by-mail system, which often results in prolonged vote counting over several weeks. Critics have raised concerns about the legitimacy of such an extended process.

Hilton sought to reassure supporters, stating, "I've got strong things to say about the pace, but I want to reassure everyone who may be listening who's a supporter of mine that we're keeping a close eye on things."

He expressed confidence in the fairness of the election administration, adding, "I'm sure every other campaign has lawyers standing by ready to act if there's anything untoward that we think requires that kind of action, but so far we haven't seen anything that meets that standard."

Broader context: California's housing crisis

California's housing crisis has been a pressing issue for years, with rising costs and a shortage of affordable housing units. The state's population growth and economic boom have put a strain on the housing market, leading to increased competition for limited resources.

The proposed housing bill aims to address this crisis by streamlining regulatory approvals and increasing worker compensation . However, the opposition from construction unions highlights the complex nature of the issue and the need for a nuanced solution.

Open questions: Who will prevail in the California gubernatorial race?

The outcome of the California gubernatorial race remains uncertain, with Steve Hilton's endorsement of Trump and affirmation of Biden's 2020 win sparking controversy. The prolonged vote counting process has also raised concerns about the legitimacy of the election.

As the campaign heats up, it remains to be seen who will prevail in the California gubernatorial race. Will Hilton's shift on Biden and his stance on the 2020 election pay off, or will his opponents capitalize on the controversy?