Trump Endorses Candidate for California Governor, Calls Him ‘Great’

President Trump has endorsed former Fox News host Steve Hilton in the California gubernatorial race, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape in one of the nation’s most closely watched state contests.

“I have known and respected Steve Hilton, who is running for Governor of California, for many years. He is a truly fine man, one who has watched as this once great State has gone to Hell,” Trump wrote Monday in a Truth Social post, where he delivered a scathing assessment of California’s current Democratic leadership under Governor Gavin Newsom.

In his endorsement, Trump criticized California’s high taxes, rising crime rates, and population exodus, claiming Hilton could “turn it around, before it is too late.” The former president pledged federal support if Hilton wins, declaring, “With Federal help, and a Great Governor, like Steve Hilton, California can be better than ever before!”

Hilton, who became a U.S. citizen in 2021 and renounced his British citizenship in 2025, is competing in California’s jungle primary system where candidates from all parties appear on the same ballot. The top two vote-getters in the June 2, 2026, primary will advance to the general election regardless of party affiliation.

Political analysts suggest Trump’s endorsement significantly alters the race’s dynamics. Hilton and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco had been leading Republican contenders in recent polls, with some observers speculating the possibility of an all-Republican runoff in November—an unusual scenario in heavily Democratic California.

“Trump kills any GOP hopes of an R vs R runoff in the California governor’s race,” noted Rob Pyers of California Target Book on social media. He added that “Trump’s endorsement of Steve Hilton likely frees up tens of millions of dollars for Democratic groups who would have otherwise had to spend heavily to elevate one of the two leading GOP gubernatorial candidates to avoid a Democratic lockout.”

The high-profile Democratic candidates in the race include former Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, Representative Eric Swalwell, and former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. Newsom, who has served as governor since 2019, is term-limited and cannot seek reelection.

California’s gubernatorial contest represents a critical test for both parties heading into the 2026 midterm cycle. Republicans have struggled to win statewide office in California for over a decade, with the state increasingly leaning Democratic in national and state elections. However, growing voter dissatisfaction with issues like housing affordability, homelessness, and public safety has created potential openings for Republican candidates.

Hilton, known for his media career and political commentary, has focused his campaign on addressing California’s cost of living crisis and promoting government reform. His background differs significantly from traditional California Republican candidates, potentially broadening his appeal beyond the party’s base.

Trump’s endorsement also signals the former president’s continued influence over Republican politics nationwide. By weighing in on California’s race, Trump demonstrates his willingness to shape contests even in states where Republicans have struggled electorally.

Neither Hilton’s campaign nor Governor Newsom’s office had responded to requests for comment as of Monday evening.

The June primary is expected to draw national attention as a bellwether for voter sentiment in the nation’s most populous state, with the outcome potentially reflecting broader political trends heading into the 2026 midterm elections and beyond.