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

Trump Backs Steve Hilton for California Governor

Former US President Donald Trump has thrown his support behind Steve Hilton, a former senior strategist to former British Prime Minister David Cameron, in the race for California governor. This endorsement introduces an unexpected dynamic to a contest that has already been marked by high volatility. Trump, in a post on Truth Social, praised Hilton as “a fantastic choice” for the role, highlighting his belief that the state’s Democratic leadership has “failed to manage California effectively.”

California’s June 2 primary features ten candidates, with the top two advancing regardless of political affiliation. This system, known as the “jungle primary,” has historically favored Democrats, who currently control state politics. However, the endorsement may create a critical shift, offering Republicans a rare opportunity to challenge the dominant party. Trump emphasized that “residents are leaving the state in droves,” suggesting his candidate could appeal to voters dissatisfied with current governance.

“Democrats have done an absolutely horrendous job,” Trump wrote. “People are fleeing.”

Steve Hilton, now based in California, previously worked as a key advisor to Cameron from 2010 to 2012. His views later diverged from the Conservative leader’s stance on immigration, prompting him to host a Fox News program and remain active in conservative media. His campaign focuses on reducing taxes, trimming the state budget, and easing the financial burden on families through lower housing costs and other measures.

Hilton’s political journey includes a stint as a visiting scholar at Stanford University in 2012 and an application for US citizenship in 2019. While his background as a UK political figure adds a unique dimension, his prospects hinge on the state’s November general election, where he could face a Democratic opponent. This outcome would mark a significant departure from California’s electoral trends, which have favored Democrats for over two decades.

A recent poll by the University of California, Berkeley’s Institute of Governmental Studies stirred controversy, showing Hilton and rival Republican Chad Bianco outpacing Democratic contenders. The survey, released in March, alarmed Democrats, leading state officials to urge some candidates to withdraw. Among the Democrats, Congressman Eric Swalwell, former Congresswoman Katie Porter, and billionaire climate advocate Tom Steyer were seen as the strongest contenders.