California Republican legislators are gearing up for a crucial vote this weekend, aimed at backing a candidate for the gubernatorial position to replace outgoing Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom, who is term-limited.
This vote is set to take place this Sunday during the California Republican Party’s annual convention in San Diego. It comes shortly after former President Donald Trump publicly endorsed conservative commentator and ex-Fox News host Steve Hilton, favoring him over Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, both of whom are prominent contenders in the Republican race.
Trump’s backing is particularly powerful in the Republican primary. In his statement, he claimed California had “gone to hell” and expressed confidence that Hilton could restore the state before it was too late, adding, “As President, I’ll help you do that!” His endorsement is expected to significantly influence the dynamics at the state convention.
California Republican Party Chairman Colin Rankin suggested Trump’s support would energize the base and create a buzz around Hilton’s candidacy.
Bianco, a strong Trump supporter with significant backing among local Republican insiders, stands in contrast to Hilton, who was a key advisor to former British Prime Minister David Cameron before relocating to the U.S. and gaining citizenship in 2021. With the party needing 60% delegate support to secure backing, Hilton’s recent endorsement may tip the scales.
However, Sheriff Bianco seems undeterred, arguing that long-standing politicians and insiders have manipulated the electoral process. In a social media video, he stated, “This election belongs to the people, not the political class.”
A potential complication for the Republican Party arises from the upcoming June primary, where candidates from both major parties will share the ballot. With nine Democratic candidates running, there’s a chance that votes could be split, possibly preventing any from advancing to the general election.
Polling has indicated that Hilton and Bianco are emerging as the top Republican candidates. Yet, recent data suggests that Trump’s endorsement could boost Hilton’s approval while Bianco’s may decline, affecting their chances in the primary. Rob Pyers from California Target Book remarked that Trump’s support might undermine hopes for a Republican showdown in the general election.
Hilton dismissed the notion of two Republicans making it to the general election as unrealistic, asserting that it was a fantasy to think that California’s Democratic machinery would allow such a scenario.
No Republican has succeeded in winning a statewide election in California since Arnold Schwarzenegger’s 2006 re-election, and Trump’s low approval ratings in the state could pose a challenge. It remains uncertain whether Hilton’s campaign will benefit from the former President’s endorsement leading up to the November vote.
