Trump Endorses Steve Hilton in California Gubernatorial Race
On Monday, President Donald Trump backed former Fox News host Steve Hilton in the race for California governor. This endorsement might reshape the landscape for the Republican Party’s efforts to secure this seat.
Trump’s support could complicate Republican ambitions for Hilton and Chad Bianco to gain traction in the state’s primary, potentially hindering a divided Democratic ticket from advancing to the final round. Reportedly, the endorsement could significantly diminish Bianco’s chances, as well as those of the party overall.
“I’ve known and respected Steve Hilton for many years,” Trump stated. “He’s an impressive individual who has witnessed a great state decline. Gavin Newsom and the Democrats have really messed things up. People are leaving, crime rates are rising, and taxes are among the highest—if not the highest—in the nation, maybe even globally. Steve can help turn things around before it’s too late, and as president, I’ll support him in that! With federal assistance and a capable governor like Steve Hilton, California can thrive again!”
Reports indicate that Trump’s endorsement might also relieve Democrats from investing heavily in one of the Republican candidates to prevent a Democratic lockout in the election.
Rob Pyers, a political data expert, noted, “Trump’s backing of Steve Hilton likely frees up a substantial amount of money for Democratic groups, which would have otherwise needed to spend considerably to ensure one of the top Republican gubernatorial candidates doesn’t get shut out.”
This weekend, California’s Republican Party is set to hold a convention to determine whether to endorse Hilton. However, prior to Trump’s support, that endorsement seemed uncertain. Notably, Hilton has indicated he doesn’t plan to involve Trump in his campaign.
“The media’s focus on Trump, as well as that of the California Democratic Party, isn’t beneficial for our state. We must concentrate on the issues facing California, which is what I’m dedicated to,” Hilton stated.
Furthermore, he has expressed that he is not actively seeking Trump’s endorsement, emphasizing the importance of finding “balance” and promoting “realistic policies” after years of “one-party Democratic rule” in California. Hilton officially declared his candidacy for governor in April 2025.
