Trump endorses ex-UK political aide Steve Hilton for California governor
Trump endorses ex-UK political aide Steve Hilton for California governor
A Shift in the California Governor’s Race
Donald Trump, the U.S. president, has publicly supported Steve Hilton, a former senior aide to the late British Prime Minister David Cameron, in the bid for California’s governorship. This endorsement adds momentum to a race characterized by volatile dynamics in a state where Democrats hold dominant control. The primary election, scheduled for 2 June, will determine the top two candidates, irrespective of their party affiliation, who will then compete in the general election.
“Democrats have done an absolutely horrendous job,” Trump asserted in a Truth Social post, adding that “people are fleeing” the state. He hailed Republican candidate Steve Hilton as “a great governor,” signaling a strategic push to disrupt the current political order.
Steve Hilton’s Background and Campaign
Steve Hilton, who resides in California, previously held a prominent role in David Cameron’s administration from 2010 to 2012. However, his views on immigration policy diverged from Cameron’s, leading to a shift in his political alignment. Hilton later became a Fox News contributor and hosts a show on the network, while also serving as a visiting scholar at Stanford University since 2012.
His campaign focuses on reducing taxes, trimming the state budget, and lowering living costs for households. Hilton has also disclosed his application for U.S. citizenship in 2019, reflecting his deepening engagement with American politics. Despite his Republican affiliation, his candidacy is seen as a potential challenge to the Democratic stronghold in the state.
The Political Landscape
California’s primary system, known as a “jungle” format, allows candidates from any party to qualify, making the race unpredictable. While Republicans have struggled to secure statewide victories in recent years, the current field of contenders presents an opportunity. A March poll by the University of California, Berkeley’s Institute of Governmental Studies highlighted this, showing Hilton and another Republican, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, outperforming Democratic candidates.
Democratic Response and Concerns
The poll’s findings alarmed Democrats, prompting state party leaders to urge some candidates to withdraw to consolidate support. Among the eight Democratic contenders, Congressman Eric Swalwell, former Congresswoman Katie Porter, and billionaire climate activist Tom Steyer emerged as the most favored. Trump’s endorsement, though, could complicate the Republican race, potentially marginalizing Bianco and opening the door for a Democratic candidate to gain an edge in November.
