A seismic shift has occurred in the California gubernatorial race. Former President Donald Trump has decisively backed Steve Hilton, a former television host, in his bid to unseat the current governor.
Trump’s endorsement, delivered via a statement, was characteristically forceful. He described Hilton as a “truly fine man” and painted a bleak picture of California under its current leadership, claiming the state has descended into disarray.
The former president didn’t hold back in his criticism of the current administration, citing rising crime rates, exorbitant taxes, and a mass exodus of residents. He asserted Hilton possesses the ability to reverse this decline, promising his full support should Hilton win.
Hilton enters a complex primary landscape. California’s “jungle primary” system pits candidates from all parties against each other, with only the top two vote-getters advancing to the general election in June 2026.
The field of contenders is crowded, including prominent Democrats like Xavier Becerra, a former cabinet member, and Congressman Eric Swalwell. Former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa also seeks the governorship, adding further complexity to the race.
This endorsement could significantly alter the dynamics for Republicans. Prior to Trump’s statement, Hilton and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco were considered the frontrunners, raising hopes of a Republican face-off in the general election.
Political analysts suggest Trump’s backing will likely boost Hilton’s support while simultaneously diminishing Bianco’s chances. This shift could inadvertently benefit Democrats, freeing up resources they would have otherwise used to influence the Republican primary.
The move is seen by some as potentially ensuring a Democratic lockout in the general election, as resources previously earmarked for intra-party Republican battles can now be focused on the November contest.
Hilton’s personal journey adds another layer to his candidacy. He became a U.S. citizen in 2021, a fact he highlighted in a recent interview, and later relinquished his British citizenship in 2025.
The implications of Trump’s endorsement are far-reaching, setting the stage for a fiercely contested and closely watched gubernatorial race in California.
