Trump endorses ex-UK political aide Steve Hilton for California governor
Trump Backs Steve Hilton for California Governor
Donald Trump, the current US president, has endorsed Steve Hilton, a former British Prime Minister David Cameron’s high-level advisor, as the Republican candidate for California governor. This decision injects unpredictability into a fiercely contested race in a state largely dominated by Democratic voters.
Trump’s Rationale for Endorsement
In a recent post on Truth Social, Trump praised Hilton, stating he would “be a great governor.” The president criticized the Democratic leadership, claiming they had “done an absolutely horrendous job” in California and that “people are fleeing” the state. His endorsement comes amid a crowded field of 10 candidates vying for the June 2 primary.
“Democrats have done an absolutely horrendous job” in California and “people are fleeing” the state.
Hilton’s Background and Campaign Focus
Steve Hilton, who now resides in California, previously served as a key advisor to Cameron from 2010 to 2012. He later grew critical of the Conservative leader’s immigration policies and became a prominent figure in conservative media, hosting a Fox News show for years. Currently, Hilton is a visiting scholar at Stanford University and has applied for US citizenship since 2019.
Hilton’s campaign centers on reducing taxes, cutting state budgets, and lowering housing costs for families. His platform aims to address economic concerns in a state where Democratic dominance has persisted for over two decades.
Primary System and Republican Hopes
California’s top-two primary system means the leading candidates from any party will advance to the November general election. For Republicans, this race represents a rare opportunity to claim the governor’s office, as they have not achieved a statewide victory in nearly 20 years.
However, Trump’s endorsement could complicate the GOP’s chances if Hilton faces a Democratic opponent in November. While his support boosts his visibility, it may also dilute the Republican vote, allowing a Democrat to secure the majority.
Shift in Polling Trends
A March poll conducted by the University of California, Berkeley’s Institute of Governmental Studies sparked debate, revealing that Hilton and rival Chad Bianco, the Riverside County Sheriff, outpaced Democratic contenders. This data alarmed Democrats, prompting state party officials to push for candidate consolidation in the state’s so-called jungle primary system.
“Congressman Eric Swalwell, former congresswoman Katie Porter, and billionaire climate activist Tom Steyer had the most support among the eight Democrats running.”
The poll highlighted a potential challenge for Democrats, as their field was fragmented. State leaders called for strategic exits, fearing the Republicans might capitalize on the divided front to gain momentum in the general election.
