Former Fox News personality Steve Hilton declared on Monday his intention to enter the California gubernatorial race and aims to succeed Gov. Gavin Newsom.
In a video announcement shared on social media platform X, Hilton reflected on his upbringing in London before relocating to California and becoming a U.S. citizen. The businessman, author, and previous television host took aim at the Democratic leader who has maintained authority in the West Coast state, asserting that change is necessary.
“California is not just another state. It embodies America and symbolizes the world for America,” Hilton stated. “Let’s restore California as a land of opportunity. Great jobs, wonderful homes, and thriving children.”
“There’s only one route to achieve this,” he said. “We need to put an end to the one-party dominance that has led to this disorder. Now is the moment to conclude this year of Democratic failures.”
His video includes images of Newsom, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, and former Vice President Kamala Harris.
In a conversation with Fox News Digital, Hilton expressed that he considers elections as “a matter of life or death” which can rectify the state’s Democratic governance.
Hilton is the second most recognized Republican participating in the 2026 gubernatorial race, trailing Republican Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco.
Given time constraints, the race is open for a crowded primary. However, Bianco and Hilton are confronted with challenges since California has not elected a Republican governor since Arnold Schwarzenegger’s reelection in 2006.
Many state Democrats have voiced support for Harris should she choose to enter the race following a tough presidential loss last year. The former vice president has yet to announce her candidacy, while Democrats might also back former Congressman Katie Porter (D-Calif.), who initiated her campaign in March. Former Health and Human Services Director Xavier Becerra also started his campaign earlier this month.
Hilton, age 55, mentioned in his video that he was motivated by working with former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.
In 2012, he and his spouse relocated to California, where she worked for Google and taught at Stanford University. From 2017 to 2023, Hilton hosted the weekly show “The Next Revolution” on Fox News and founded the tech startup CrowdPac, serving as its CEO.
A staunch supporter of President Trump, Hilton advocated for an inquiry into the 2020 presidential election after Trump lost to former President Biden.
Hilton and other Republicans are set to face tough contests in elections throughout the state, but his connections in Silicon Valley could be advantageous if donor support boosts his campaign. The New York Times reported.
“It’s time for a new beginning,” the video from Hilton concluded. “This is why he is running to revitalize this wonderful state.
