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

Trump Endorses Ex-UK Political Aide Steve Hilton for California Governor

Donald Trump, the U.S. president, has thrown his support behind Steve Hilton, a former high-ranking advisor to former British Prime Minister David Cameron, in the race for California’s gubernatorial seat. This endorsement has stirred a highly unpredictable contest in a state where the Democratic Party maintains a dominant presence. The move adds momentum to a race already marked by shifting dynamics.

In a message on Truth Social, Trump claimed that “Democrats have done an absolutely horrendous job” in California, noting that “people are fleeing” the state. He also praised Hilton, stating,

“Steve Hilton would be a great governor.”

The president emphasized his belief in the Republican’s ability to revitalize the state’s political landscape.

Hilton, who now resides in California, previously held a senior position under Cameron from 2010 to 2012. However, he later became critical of the Conservative leader’s immigration policies. The former aide transitioned to media, hosting a Fox News show and continuing to engage with conservative news platforms.

Hilton’s campaign focuses on reducing taxes and trimming the state budget, alongside efforts to lower housing and other living expenses for families. He joined Stanford University as a visiting scholar in 2012 and announced his application for U.S. citizenship in 2019. The Republican candidate faces a challenge in a state where Democrats have historically held strong control.

California’s primary system, known as a “jungle” format, allows the top two vote-getters to advance to the general election, regardless of party affiliation. While Republicans have not secured a statewide victory in over two decades, the split among Democratic contenders has created a window of opportunity. Trump’s endorsement, however, may complicate matters by bolstering Hilton’s position at the expense of another Republican, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco.

A March survey by the University of California, Berkeley’s Institute of Governmental Studies caught the political world off guard, revealing that Hilton and Bianco had more support than some Democratic candidates. This prompted state Democrats to call for consolidation, urging certain candidates to withdraw to strengthen their collective chances against the Republican hopefuls.