Steve Hilton Enters California Governor Race

Former Fox News personality Steve Hilton has declared his candidacy for the governorship of California, aiming to reclaim the position for the Republican party for the first time since Arnold Schwarzenegger’s tenure. Hilton, who also advised former British Prime Minister David Cameron, has officially thrown his hat into the ring for the 2026 election, following Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco as the second prominent GOP contender.

Critique of Democratic Leadership

Hilton has recently authored a book where he critiques the perceived failures under California’s Democratic governance and suggests various policy solutions. His campaign launch was marked by a direct challenge to the Democratic status quo, particularly targeting former Vice President Kamala Harris, who is rumored to be considering a gubernatorial bid. In his announcement video, Hilton stated, “It’s time to end the years of Democrat failure”, accompanied by an image of Harris.

Hilton’s Vision for California

In his campaign rhetoric, Hilton expressed a desire to restore California as a beacon of American excellence, emphasizing the necessity to dismantle the longstanding Democratic dominance in the state. He remarked, “Let’s make California an inspiration, again, the very best of America… We’ve got to end the one-party rule that got us into this mess.”

Strategic Republican Consolidation

The Republican strategy in California has typically involved rallying behind a single candidate to ensure their progression from the state’s ‘jungle primary’ system, where the top two candidates advance to the general election regardless of party affiliation. Hilton’s campaign sets up a competitive primary race against Bianco, with both seeking to secure the GOP base’s support by June of the next year.

Background and Political Alignment

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Born in Britain and a former member of the Conservative Party, Hilton relocated to California in 2012. He has since engaged in various roles, including teaching at Stanford University, founding the tech startup Crowdpac, and hosting “The Next Revolution” on Fox News until 2023. A staunch supporter of President Donald Trump, Hilton has also expressed admiration for former UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, highlighting his conservative credentials in his campaign materials.

Upcoming Campaign Events

Hilton has already initiated formal procedures to contest the gubernatorial race and is scheduled to hold a public event in Huntington Beach, a notably conservative locale in Orange County, this Tuesday.