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Three-time Masters champion Phil Mickelson has made a significant campaign contribution to Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton in California, marking a rare political donation from the golf legend who has largely stayed out of the political arena.
According to California’s campaign finance records, Mickelson’s donation comes as Hilton seeks to become the state’s first Republican governor in over two decades. The contribution stands out in Mickelson’s financial history, as he has made only one other notable political donation at the federal level—a $700 gift to former U.S. Rep. J.D. Hayworth, R-Ariz., in 1994, according to Federal Election Commission records.
Mickelson, who relocated to Florida in 2020 after publicly criticizing California’s high tax rates, voiced his support for Hilton earlier this month on social media. “Steve Hilton can/will save California,” Mickelson posted on X, responding to Hilton’s promises to end Democrat-led climate energy mandates in the state.
Hilton, a former businessman, author, podcaster and TV host, has amassed an impressive $6.2 million in campaign contributions, outpacing several prominent Democratic candidates in the race to succeed outgoing Governor Gavin Newsom. His fundraising total exceeds that of high-profile Democrats like former U.S. Rep. Katie Porter and Rep. Eric Swalwell, who have raised $5.8 million and $5.6 million respectively. Only two Democratic candidates—former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and former San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan—have raised more than Hilton.
When asked about Mickelson’s support, Hilton expressed gratitude and framed it as part of a growing momentum behind his candidacy. “I’m incredibly honored to have Phil’s support, and we’ve had some great conversations about the future of California and how much we love this state and want to save it and make it a beautiful, spectacular place with the right leadership,” Hilton said.
The Republican candidate added, “It’s time to clean [California] up and I’m building a really broad movement for change and I am very confident that we can win in November.”
Hilton’s campaign platform centers on ending what he describes as “one-party rule” in California, which he argues has undermined the state’s entrepreneurial spirit and economic potential. In his campaign launch video, Hilton emphasized California’s symbolic importance to American ideals.
“In 2012, we moved to California, the ultimate expression of America — or it should be,” Hilton stated in the video. “This is not just any other state. California means to America what America means to the world. Let’s make California the land of opportunity again. There’s only one way to do that. We’ve got to end the one-party rule that got us into this mess.”
The gubernatorial race is heating up as California approaches its June 2 primary, when voters will narrow down a crowded field of candidates. The top finishers will advance to the general election in November, with early voting set to begin on May 4, according to the California Secretary of State’s website.
For Mickelson, the donation represents a rare venture into political waters. The golfer has generally maintained a low profile in politics throughout his career, making this endorsement of Hilton particularly notable. Political observers suggest that Mickelson’s experience as a former California resident who left the state citing tax concerns could resonate with voters who share similar frustrations about the state’s economic policies.
California’s gubernatorial contest is drawing national attention as Republicans seek to regain influence in a state that has been dominated by Democratic leadership for years. The outcome could have significant implications for California’s approach to taxes, environmental regulations, and other policy areas where Hilton has promised a departure from the current administration’s priorities.
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10 Comments
While Phil Mickelson has generally stayed out of politics, his donation to the Republican gubernatorial candidate in California is noteworthy. As a prominent figure in the world of golf, his support could carry some weight with voters, especially given his past criticisms of the state’s tax policies.
It will be intriguing to see if Mickelson’s donation and endorsement move the needle in this race. His involvement could add an unexpected dynamic to the California governor’s election.
Interesting to see a prominent golfer like Phil Mickelson get involved in a state gubernatorial race. Given his criticisms of California’s high taxes, it makes sense he would support a Republican candidate promising to roll back climate mandates. Curious to see how this donation and endorsement will impact the race.
Mickelson’s political donations have been quite rare, so this is a notable contribution. It will be interesting to see if it sways any voters in the California governor’s race.
This donation from Phil Mickelson to the Republican gubernatorial candidate in California is certainly eye-catching. As a prominent figure in the world of golf, Mickelson’s political involvement is somewhat unexpected. I wonder how this will be received by voters in the state.
It will be fascinating to see if Mickelson’s support for the Republican candidate has any tangible impact on the race. His public profile could certainly lend some momentum to the campaign.
This is a surprising political move from renowned golfer Phil Mickelson, who has largely avoided direct involvement in electoral politics. His substantial donation to the Republican gubernatorial candidate in California suggests he is seeking to influence the outcome of this race. It will be interesting to see how this plays out.
Mickelson’s decision to back the Republican challenger in the California governor’s race is a bold one, given his previous criticism of the state’s tax policies. His support could provide a boost to the campaign, though the ultimate impact remains to be seen.
Golfer Phil Mickelson’s substantial donation to the Republican candidate for California governor is an intriguing development. Given Mickelson’s public criticism of the state’s high taxes, his support for the GOP challenger is not entirely surprising. This could be an influential contribution in a closely watched race.
Mickelson’s rare foray into political donations makes this an interesting storyline to follow. The impact of his endorsement and financial backing will be closely scrutinized.