In 2016, former presidential candidate Trump posed a pointed question to black voters: “What do you have to lose?” This challenge was aimed at prompting African-American voters to reconsider their loyalty to the Democratic Party, which he claimed was failing to meet their essential needs, like providing quality education for their children. Now, it seems Steve Hilton, a Republican candidate for governor in California, should echo that sentiment as he campaigns for the support of voters in the Golden State.
California, notorious for its high living costs, has seen these issues worsen under Democratic control. Since 2018, Democrats have held a supermajority in the state legislature and the governorship. As a result, skyrocketing prices have led to significant challenges, including elevated levels of homelessness, poverty, and illegal immigration—concerns that have both businesses and residents frustrated with high taxes and stringent regulations.
A recent CBS News poll revealed that half of California voters are eager for a candidate who promises “change.” Hilton, a former Fox News host and advisor to the UK’s David Cameron, aims to bring not just change, but a fundamental shift to California. He’s positioning himself as a common-sense candidate focusing on pro-growth policies.
Interestingly, even some Democrats are voicing the need for change. Tech entrepreneur and gubernatorial candidate Matt Mahan stated, “We don’t need MAGA, but we don’t need more of the same.” Mahan, who has criticized the party on issues like homelessness and public safety, also emphasizes a new direction for the state.
The California primary is set for June 2nd, and mail-in voting began recently. Hilton currently leads a crowded field, and despite California’s historical lean toward the Democratic Party, there’s a palpable chance for Republicans this time around.
Until not too long ago, Hilton’s prospects looked even rosier, given the state’s open primary system, where the top two candidates proceed to the general election, regardless of party affiliation. A few weeks back, both Hilton and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco were leading, while more than eight Democrats split the party’s vote. If Hilton and Bianco were to finish among the top two in June, California could potentially see its first Republican governor since Arnold Schwarzenegger.
However, the Democratic Party has been so concerned by this possibility that they urged some members to exit the race. Their efforts included dealing with sexual misconduct allegations against Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell, who was leading until the controversy forced him to withdraw, affecting the party’s chances.
With Swalwell out, candidates like billionaire Tom Steyer and former Biden administration official Xavier Becerra now trail Hilton. It remains to be seen if Hilton can triumph if he faces either of these challengers in the general election, especially since around 46% of California voters are registered Democrats.
The Democratic candidates seem, well, less than inspiring. A New York Times article noted disappointment regarding former Vice President Kamala Harris’s decision not to run this time around, as officials lamented the lack of excitement in the current field. Just a year ago, Harris was a frontrunner, capturing significant support, yet her attention seems now to be on a potential presidential bid.
Tom Steyer currently sits in second place, having invested heavily in his campaign, making it potentially the most expensive gubernatorial run in California history. He would represent an unusual choice as the Democratic Party shifts away from far-left policies towards something more moderate.
Meanwhile, Becerra has picked up some of Swalwell’s former support, combining the usual Democratic voter base. Hilton brings fresh, pragmatic ideas to the table, addressing the soaring cost of living that 70% of Californians described as “unaffordable” in a CBS poll. There’s widespread disappointment in the state economy, with many feeling it’s not doing well, including significant numbers of Democrats.
Democratic policies have led to soaring energy costs, with gas prices in California exceeding $6 a gallon—quite a bit more than the national average. Housing prices are also disproportionately high due to strict regulations, while personal income taxes rank among the highest in the nation.
Hilton has pledged to end what he calls California’s “war on business,” proposing tax cuts and spending reductions. He aims to improve education as well, noting that only about 35% of K-12 students are meeting state math standards and just 47% meet the English standards.
Hilton has drawn large crowds at rallies across the state, indicating significant grassroots support. While he might feel nervous—like anyone would in a high-stakes campaign—he seems ready to deliver the change that many Californians seem to desire.
So, really, what do they have to lose?
