A crowded Democrat field could set the stage for a highly unlikely GOP win.
By Catholics for Catholics
In California, some believe the unthinkable may be a possibility come the next gubernatorial elections: that a Republican dark horse candidate could win.
In fact, President Donald Trump publicly supported California Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton on Monday, saying the former Fox News host “has my COMPLETE & TOTAL ENDORSEMENT.”
“Steve can turn it around, before it is too late, and, as President, I will help him to do so!” Trump said. “With Federal help, and a Great Governor, like Steve Hilton, California can be better than ever before!”
According to a story by The Daily Wire, Trump’s endorsement comes as a congested Democratic field, including Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA), former Rep. Katie Porter (D-CA), and billionaire environmental activist Tom Steyer, has elevated Republican prospects that California’s “jungle primary” system will result in a split vote, possible permitting GOP candidates Hilton and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco to go to the general election. Under the state’s primary system, all candidates appear on the same ballot, and the top two vote-getters advance to the general election in November regardless of party.
President Trump endorses Republican Steve Hilton in California governor’s race pic.twitter.com/F1vCGbTpvF
— The American Conservative (@amconmag) April 6, 2026
If Republican voters unite behind Hilton after Trump’s endorsement, a Democratic “lockout” of the general election appears less probable.
“I have known and respected Steve Hilton … for many years,” Trump posted on Truth Social. “He is a truly fine man, one who has watched as this once great State has gone to Hell.”
“Gavin Newscum and the Democrats have done an absolutely horrendous job,” he added. “People are fleeing, crime is increasing, and Taxes are the highest of any State in the Country, maybe the World.”
The recent polling seems to give Trump’s comments about the California elections some credibility.
The latest polling has generally placed Hilton and Bianco among the top contenders, though some newer surveys suggest a tighter race with several Democrats who are rising. One Democrat poll last month showed Hilton and Bianco leading the pack at 16% and 14%, respectively, while Swalwell, Porter, and Steyer all had around 10%.
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