Ex-UK political aide Steve Hilton would overhaul California as governor, he tells BBC

June 12, 2026

Steve Hilton, a former adviser to UK Prime Minister David Cameron who relocated to California in 2012, is mounting a Republican gubernatorial campaign in the heavily Democratic state, advancing to the November general election. His platform centers on reducing taxes, cutting regulations, and addressing what he characterizes as California's economic decline after 16 years of Democratic leadership, including proposals for tax-free income up to $100,000 and lower energy costs. Despite President Trump's endorsement—which Hilton frames as beneficial rather than problematic—he faces significant obstacles in a liberal-leaning state where his Democratic opponent Xavier Becerra has labeled him a "Trump errand boy.

Who is affected

Steve Hilton (Republican gubernatorial candidate)
Xavier Becerra (Democratic opponent and former cabinet secretary)
California residents and voters
The legal immigrant community (whom Hilton specifically addresses)
Republican voters in California (estimated at over six million based on 2024 presidential election turnout)
President Donald Trump (who has endorsed Hilton)
Federal immigration authorities
Californians registered to vote (23 million)

What action is being taken

Hilton is running a gubernatorial campaign in California
Hilton is presenting himself as a political outsider
Becerra is framing himself as a candidate fighting for the California dream
The Becerra campaign is characterizing Hilton as someone who would hand the state over to Trump
Hilton is campaigning on a platform of tax cuts, deregulation, and reducing government waste

Why it matters

This election represents a significant test of whether Republican messaging focused on economic concerns, cost of living, and frustration with the status quo can overcome California's strong Democratic lean. The race will determine whether voters prioritize Hilton's promises of tax relief and regulatory reduction over concerns about Trump alignment and potential rollback of progressive policies. The outcome could signal whether traditional blue states are vulnerable to Republican challengers who position themselves as pragmatic outsiders, and will impact California's approach to immigration enforcement, energy policy, housing costs, and cooperation with the federal government.

What's next

The general election will take place in November
A proposed ballot measure on voter ID will appear on the ballot, which Hilton suggests could help drive Republican turnout
If elected, Hilton plans to work cooperatively with Washington on policy changes, particularly regarding energy production
If elected, Hilton would not obstruct federal immigration authorities and would end California's "sanctuary state" policies

Read full article from source: BBC