Steve Hilton, the Republican candidate in California's gubernatorial race, has unveiled plans for an "Office of Fun and Freedom" that would cut bureaucratic red tape around nightlife, live entertainment and community events if he becomes governor. The British-born entrepreneur and former Fox News host, who has been endorsed by Donald Trump, frames the proposal as restoring California's "rebel spirit," arguing that excessive regulation by officials has stifled enjoyment of the state's natural and cultural attractions.

The office would sit within the governor's office and, within Hilton's first 100 days, audit rules on events, live entertainment, food pop-ups and public spaces, proposing legislative changes as needed. Specific measures include a single online hub for state event permits with automatic approval if deadlines are missed, letting communities approve alcohol sales until 4am (current law bans sales between 2am and 6am), allowing complimentary or two-for-one drinks, a single permit for small venues hosting bands or dancing, and more dog-friendly beaches with additional fire rings. The plan follows Hilton's earlier proposal for an uncapped film and TV tax credit of up to 60 percent, contrasting with rival Xavier Becerra, who has not put forward similar entertainment-focused policies.