President Trump endorses Steve Hilton in the California governor's race
Los Angeles Times • • nation
Key Points:
- Former President Donald Trump endorsed conservative commentator Steve Hilton for California governor, potentially influencing the 2026 race where Hilton and Republican rival Chad Bianco are leading contenders.
- Trump criticized Governor Gavin Newsom's record, blaming Democrats for high taxes, rising crime, and population loss, and pledged federal support for Hilton’s campaign.
- Hilton’s campaign welcomed the endorsement as a pivotal moment, while Bianco dismissed Hilton’s chances and emphasized his commitment to all Californians regardless of party.
- Recent polls show Hilton and Bianco leading a crowded field, raising the possibility of a general election without a Democrat due to vote splitting among Democratic candidates.
- Political analysts caution that Trump’s endorsement could backfire by consolidating Republican votes behind Hilton, potentially enabling a Democrat to win in November, while Hilton rejects claims that the Democratic establishment controls California politics.
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