Trump endorses ex-UK political aide Steve Hilton for California governor
Trump Backs Steve Hilton in California Governor Race
Donald Trump, the U.S. president, has endorsed Steve Hilton, a former key advisor to the late British prime minister David Cameron, as the Republican candidate for California’s governor position. This move is expected to add volatility to a race already characterized by uncertainty in a state dominated by Democratic voters.
“Democrats have done an absolutely horrendous job in California, and residents are abandoning the state,” Trump stated in a Truth Social post, asserting that “Republican candidate Steve Hilton would be a great governor.”
With the primary election set for 2 June, Hilton is one of ten candidates vying for the top-two spots, which will determine the general election outcome. Republicans have not secured a statewide victory in California since 2002, making this endorsement a pivotal moment for the party.
Hilton, who now resides in California, served as a senior aide to Cameron from 2010 to 2012 before growing critical of the former prime minister’s immigration policies. He later became a prominent figure on Fox News, hosting a show for several years and continuing to engage with the conservative media outlet.
Running on a platform of fiscal conservatism, Hilton aims to reduce taxes, trim state budgets, and lower living costs for families. He joined Stanford University as a visiting scholar in 2012 and announced his application for U.S. citizenship in 2019. His campaign emphasizes economic reform and pragmatic governance.
Political Landscape and Polling Shifts
California’s political structure, where Democrats hold overwhelming control, has historically favored the party in statewide races. However, the state’s “jungle primary” system, which allows voters to choose between candidates of any party, has created an opportunity for Republicans to gain traction due to a fractured Democratic field.
“I am deeply honored to receive the endorsement of the Republican president,” Hilton remarked on X, expressing his gratitude for the support.
A March poll by the University of California, Berkeley’s Institute of Governmental Studies surprised analysts by showing Hilton and another Republican, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, leading Democratic contenders. This result prompted Democratic officials to urge some candidates to withdraw, aiming to consolidate support against the Republican challenge.
The poll highlighted Congressman Eric Swalwell, former Congresswoman Katie Porter, and billionaire climate activist Tom Steyer as the top Democratic candidates. Despite the endorsement, Trump’s backing may not guarantee Hilton’s victory, as he could face a formidable Democratic opponent in November.
