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

Trump Backs Steve Hilton in California Governor Race

Former British Prime Minister David Cameron’s long-time political associate, Steve Hilton, has received an unexpected boost from U.S. President Donald Trump, who declared him a “great governor” in a recent post on Truth Social. This endorsement comes as California’s gubernatorial race remains highly volatile, with no clear frontrunner in a state typically dominated by Democrats.

Hilton, a Republican candidate, is among ten contenders vying for the June 2 primary. The top two vote-getters, irrespective of party affiliation, will face off in the November general election. Despite Republicans’ struggles to secure statewide victories in California for over two decades, Trump’s support has injected new momentum into the campaign.

“Democrats have done an absolutely horrendous job” in California, according to Trump, who added that “people are fleeing” the state.

Steve Hilton, who resides in California, previously served as a senior aide to Cameron from 2010 to 2012. However, he later distanced himself from the Conservative leader’s stance on immigration. He later became a voice on Fox News, where he advocated for limited government and free-market policies.

Hilton’s campaign focuses on reducing taxes, streamlining state spending, and lowering living costs for families. He joined Stanford University as a visiting scholar in 2012 and has been in the process of applying for U.S. citizenship since 2019. While his background includes ties to British politics, his current platform aligns with American conservative values.

The University of California, Berkeley’s Institute of Governmental Studies recently challenged the Democratic stronghold in the state. A March poll revealed that Hilton and rival Republican Chad Bianco were outperforming Democratic candidates in the so-called jungle primary system. This split within the Democratic field has created an opening for Republicans, though Trump’s endorsement may complicate the dynamics.

Democrats, fearing a loss, urged some candidates to step aside. The poll highlighted Congressman Eric Swalwell, former Congresswoman Katie Porter, and billionaire environmental advocate Tom Steyer as the leading Democratic contenders. With Trump’s backing, Hilton could gain traction, but the challenge remains formidable in a state where liberal voters outnumber conservatives.