Trump Endorses Steve Hilton for California Governor
WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump delivered a significant boost to the California gubernatorial race late Sunday night, issuing a formal endorsement for Republican challenger Steve Hilton. The move creates a major shift in the state’s political landscape ahead of the June 2 primary.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, the President cited his long-standing respect for the former Fox News host and ex-British government aide, dismissing the candidacy of Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco—the other prominent Republican in the field—in favor of Hilton. Trump emphasized the need for a change in state leadership, citing concerns over crime, taxation, and a declining quality of life.
Key milestones from the announcement include:
- Endorsement Power: Trump has granted Hilton his “COMPLETE & TOTAL ENDORSEMENT,” aiming to consolidate the Republican vote early.
- Strategic Shift: The endorsement is expected to consolidate GOP support, potentially preventing two Republicans from splitting the vote and inadvertently clearing a path for a crowded field of Democrats.
- Policy Alignment: Hilton’s campaign already advocates for aggressive economic reform, including a plan that would exempt over 7.1 million California households from state income tax by slashing spending to pre-pandemic levels.
“People are fleeing [California], crime is increasing, and Taxes are the highest of any State in the Country, maybe the World. Steve can turn it around, before it is too late, and, as President, I will help him to do so!”
— Donald Trump, President
The Republican field in California faces a steep climb. Recent polling indicates former Democratic Rep. Katie Porter currently leads the opposition with 21 percent support. Hilton has positioned his bid around a platform of ending one-party rule, addressing the state’s high cost of living—specifically focusing on electricity, water, and housing affordability—and “reviving the California Dream” for working-class families.
By aligning himself closely with the Trump administration’s immigration and economic policies, Hilton has sought to galvanize the conservative base. His campaign has frequently highlighted these policy synergies, arguing that federal cooperation is essential to solving the systemic issues facing the nation’s most populous state.
“With Federal help, and a Great Governor, like Steve Hilton, California can be better than ever before! Steve Hilton has my COMPLETE & TOTAL ENDORSEMENT. He will be a GREAT Governor and, importantly, WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!!!”
— Donald Trump, President
The endorsement effectively draws a sharp line in the sand for California Republicans, forcing donors and voters to choose between the populist momentum of the Trump-backed Hilton and the local law enforcement platform championed by Sheriff Bianco. As the June 2 primary approaches, all eyes remain on whether this federal backing will be enough to bridge the polling gap against the Democratic frontrunners.
