Trump endorses ex-UK political aide Steve Hilton for California governor

April 6, 2026

Donald Trump has endorsed Steve Hilton, a British-born former adviser to UK Prime Minister David Cameron, in California's gubernatorial race, potentially reshaping the competitive primary dynamics. Hilton, who later hosted a Fox News program and now lives in California, is running on a conservative platform emphasizing tax cuts and budget reductions. The endorsement may help Hilton consolidate Republican support against the other GOP candidate, Sheriff Chad Bianco, but could prove problematic if he advances to face a Democrat in the general election in heavily Democratic California.

Who is affected

Steve Hilton (endorsed Republican candidate)
Chad Bianco (Republican Riverside County Sheriff, other GOP candidate)
Eight Democratic candidates, specifically Eric Swalwell, Katie Porter, and Tom Steyer
California Democratic Party officials
California voters and residents
Donald Trump (as endorser)

What action is being taken

Trump is endorsing Steve Hilton for governor
Hilton is running for governor on a platform of lower taxes and cutting the state budget
Ten total candidates are running in the June 2 primary
Democratic party officials are calling for some candidates to drop out

Why it matters

This race represents a rare opportunity for Republicans to win the California governorship for the first time in two decades, particularly because the Democratic field is fragmented across eight candidates under the state's jungle primary system. Trump's endorsement could determine which candidates advance to the general election by consolidating Republican support, though it may simultaneously hurt the GOP's chances in the general election given California's liberal-leaning electorate. The outcome will determine leadership of the nation's most populous state amid concerns about costs, housing, and migration patterns.

What's next

The top two finishers from the June 2 primary, regardless of party, will advance to the general election in November.

Read full article from source: BBC