President Donald Trump endorsed former Fox News host Steve Hilton in the California governor’s race on Monday, potentially altering the Republican Party’s strategy in the state’s primary. The endorsement, posted on Truth Social, comes as Hilton and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco lead the Republican field in polls. Trump praised Hilton as a 'truly fine man' and criticized California’s Democratic leadership, stating that 'Gavin Newscum and the Democrats have done an absolutely horrendous job.'
Impact on the Primary Race
Trump’s endorsement may consolidate Republican support behind Hilton, potentially weakening Bianco’s campaign. Under California’s top-two primary system, the two highest vote-getters, regardless of party, advance to the general election. Analysts suggest Trump’s backing could prevent a Republican lockout, where both Hilton and Bianco might have advanced, forcing Democrats to compete in a runoff. Instead, Democrats may now face a single Republican candidate in November.
Strategic Implications
Political experts argue that Trump’s endorsement could backfire by splitting the Republican vote, making it easier for Democrats to secure one of the top two spots. Garry South, a California-based political strategist, told the Washington Examiner that Trump’s move 'pretty much assures' a Democratic candidate will advance. Meanwhile, Democratic strategist Dave McLaughlin agreed, stating that Trump’s endorsement 'obliterates any fantasy of Republicans taking the top two spots.'
Candidate Background
Hilton, a former top aide to ex-British Prime Minister David Cameron, has positioned himself as a conservative reformer focused on lowering taxes and reducing state spending. He previously hosted a Fox News show and has been a visiting scholar at Stanford University. Bianco, a Riverside County Sheriff, has also gained traction among California Republicans. The Democratic field includes high-profile candidates such as Rep. Eric Swalwell, former Rep. Katie Porter, and former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa.
Reactions and Polling
Hilton expressed gratitude for Trump’s endorsement but has previously distanced himself from the former president’s involvement in the race. Polls show Hilton and Bianco in a tight contest, each hovering in the low double digits. The endorsement may now shift Republican voter support toward Hilton, potentially altering the primary dynamics. Democrats, meanwhile, are likely to consolidate their votes behind a single candidate, increasing their chances of advancing to the general election.
Long-Term Implications
The endorsement highlights the influence of Trump’s backing in Republican primaries, even in deep-blue states like California. It also underscores the challenges Republicans face in a state where Democrats dominate both the electorate and political institutions. The outcome of the primary will determine whether California remains under Democratic control or if Republicans have a rare opportunity to capture the governor’s mansion.