Gubernatorial candidate's ad panned as creepy

California gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton's campaign faced backlash after his advertisement compared voting Republican to a lesbian tryst, prompting critics to label the ad as creepy. The ad, which aired earlier this week, drew immediate attention for its controversial analogy, with some viewers finding it unsettling and others deeming it offensive. The ad was released on October 6, 2026, and quickly became a topic of discussion online. It depicted a scenario where supporting Republican policies was equated to engaging in a private, intimate act, drawing sharp criticism from political analysts and social media users alike. Some argued the comparison was inappropriate and potentially harmful, while others defended it as a provocative attempt to highlight ideological differences. Steve Hilton, a prominent figure in California politics, has long been known for his bold rhetoric. His campaign team did not immediately respond to the controversy, though internal documents obtained by local media suggest the ad was part of a broader strategy to galvanize base voters ahead of the November election. Political commentators noted that the ad's tone diverged from traditional campaign messaging, sparking debate over the boundaries of acceptable political speech. While some supporters praised the ad for its audacity, others warned that such tactics could alienate potential voters and damage the campaign's credibility. As the election approaches, the fallout from the ad continues to shape public perception of Hilton's candidacy. Whether the controversy will influence voter behavior remains to be seen.