GOP Candidate Brushes Off Bad Trump News
Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton is pushing back hard against the idea that President Donald Trump’s popularity in California will determine the outcome of the state’s high-stakes governor’s race.
Instead, Hilton says voters are focused on something much closer to home: the decline of California under long-term Democrat control.
Speaking with political analyst Chris Stirewalt on The Hill Sunday, Hilton made his message clear—this election is about fixing California, not relitigating national politics.
“California Is Crying Out for Change”
Hilton, a former adviser to U.K. Prime Minister David Cameron and now a leading Republican voice in the race, didn’t hold back.
“This election is about the future of California,” Hilton said. “People are desperate for change—and for good reason.”
He pointed to a long list of concerns hitting families across the state:
- Sky-high cost of living
- Rising homelessness and poverty
- Persistent unemployment struggles
- Businesses fleeing to other states
According to Hilton, these problems are not случай—they are the direct result of years of failed Democrat policies.
16 Years of One-Party Rule Under Fire
Hilton argued that California’s challenges stem from more than a decade of one-party dominance.
“After 16 years of Democrat control, this is where we are,” he said. “Why would anyone expect a different result by voting the same way again?”
His campaign is centered on offering what he calls a “completely new direction”—a message aimed directly at frustrated voters, especially retirees and working families feeling squeezed by inflation and high taxes.
Trump Approval Low—But Does It Even Matter?
While critics point to low approval ratings for Trump in California, Hilton says that’s missing the bigger picture.
Polling from the Public Policy Institute of California shows Trump’s approval hovering around 29 percent statewide. But Hilton insists voters are more concerned with local issues impacting their daily lives.
And among Republicans, Trump remains overwhelmingly popular—highlighting a strong base that could prove decisive in a crowded primary.
Crowded Race, High Stakes
The California governor’s race is heating up ahead of the June 2 primary, with multiple candidates competing for the top two spots that advance to the general election.
Recent polling shows a tight field:
- Hilton leading among Republicans alongside Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco
- Democrats split between figures like Tom Steyer, Katie Porter, and Xavier Becerra
California’s election system means party doesn’t matter in the primary—only the top two vote-getters move forward.
That creates a serious risk for Republicans.
Warning: GOP Could Be Shut Out Entirely
Hilton issued a blunt warning to conservative voters: without unity, Republicans could be completely locked out of the general election.
“I don’t think two Republicans advancing is realistic,” Hilton said. “You’re up against powerful government unions, massive spending, and billionaire candidates.”
He specifically pointed to Democrat fundraising power and influence as a major obstacle.
The Real Battle Ahead
Looking forward, Hilton predicted that if he advances, he will likely face either Steyer or Porter in the general election.
But he emphasized that the real fight starts now—in the primary.
“The biggest danger is ending up with two Democrats in November,” Hilton warned. “That’s why Republicans must unite behind the strongest candidate.”
Bottom Line
For many Californians—especially older voters who remember a very different state—the 2026 governor’s race may come down to one simple question:
Stay the course… or finally demand change?
