Trump’s ‘Complete and Total’ Endorsement of Steve Hilton Highlights Voter Frustrations in California Governor’s Race
- Elisa Ballard
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
April 6, 2026
President Donald Trump on Monday issued his “COMPLETE & TOTAL ENDORSEMENT” for Steve Hilton in the race for California governor, posting on Truth Social that he has "known and respected" the former Fox News host for many years.
Trump, who received 6,081,697 votes in California during the 2024 presidential election, pointed to the deep frustrations felt by millions of residents in the once-great state. Under Democratic leadership, Californians have endured sky-high gas prices, soaring electricity rates, burdensome unfunded mandates from Sacramento, and policies many see as prioritizing benefits for illegal immigrants over law-abiding citizens and families.
“Gavin Newscum and the Democrats have done an absolutely horrendous job,” Trump wrote, criticizing high taxes, rising crime and the exodus of residents and businesses. “Steve can turn it around, before it is too late, and, as President, I will help him to do so! With Federal help, and a Great Governor, like Steve Hilton, California can be better than ever before!”
Hilton, a British-born former adviser to U.K. Prime Minister David Cameron and a prominent conservative commentator, is seeking the governorship in the June 2, 2026, nonpartisan primary. The top-two system advances the two highest vote-getters to the November general election regardless of party. Hilton has focused his campaign on housing affordability, lowering taxes, improving public safety, and tackling the cost-of-living crisis under the slogan “Make California Golden Again.”
The endorsement is expected to give Hilton a major boost in the crowded Republican field, particularly against rival Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco. Recent polls have shown Hilton already consolidating GOP support; Trump’s official approval—rooted in the president’s strong 2024 showing in the state—is likely to accelerate that process and position Hilton strongly for one of the two general-election spots.
Political analysts note that while the move solidifies Hilton’s path through the primary, winning the governorship remains a steep challenge in heavily Democratic California, which has not elected a Republican governor since Arnold Schwarzenegger in 2006. A Hilton-led ticket would more likely face a Democratic opponent in November.
Hilton welcomed the news, upon hearing of the endorsement, he said he was “deeply honored” and sees it as an opportunity to restore California’s promise with Washington’s support.
The high-profile backing instantly elevates the race to replace term-limited Gov. Gavin Newsom and underscores Trump’s continued sway over Republican contests even from the White House.
