GOP gubernatorial candidate schools Democrats on ‘outrageous’ tax that could charge drivers per mile

A leading Republican running for California governor blasted Golden State Democrats for an “outrageous” mileage tax that would force drivers to pay based on how much they drive.

“If the Democrats get their way, this journey — and every single journey made by anyone driving anywhere in California — will be tracked,” the GOP candidate Steve Hilton said. “You’re gonna have to pay a charge for every mile you drive. It is absolutely outrageous.”

California’s proposed mileage tax, or “road charge,” would replace the gas tax with a per-mile fee.

Assembly Bill 1421, which passed 43-18, won’t enact the tax but will fund research on rates and collection methods, to be completed by Jan. 1, 2027.

Hilton, who has raised the most money of gubernatorial candidates outside of billionaire Tom Steyer, called the tax a total “ripoff.”

“We already have the highest taxes in the country, the highest gas tax, vehicle registration,” he said in a video shared on X.

“I’m telling you right now, if they try to pass this bill for a road charge, I will say no, no, no, and veto it.”