Steve Hilton’s strategy to win California’s governorship as a Republican in a deeply blue state

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 03:23:00 +0200

POLITICO’s video interview explores Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton’s argument that California, long dominated by Democrats, could realistically elect a Republican governor in 2026. The piece follows California’s shaken‑up race after Democrat Eric Swalwell withdrew amid sexual‑assault and misconduct allegations, opening the field ahead of the June 2 primary. Hilton, a former Fox News host endorsed by President Donald Trump, says he is currently leading or near the top of public polls and believes Democratic leadership has failed on issues such as cost of living, taxes, and public safety. He casts his campaign around the slogan “Califordable,” pledging to lower taxes, cut regulations, and make housing and basics more affordable while attacking what he portrays as a bloated, Democratic‑run state government. Hilton also discusses how Trump’s endorsement fits into his broader strategy, arguing that a Republican governor could reshape California’s policy direction even in a