Trump's Shocking Choice: Why His Endorsement of Steve Hilton Could Change Everything in California!

In a late-night announcement on Sunday, former President Donald Trump endorsed conservative commentator Steve Hilton for the upcoming California gubernatorial race in 2026. This endorsement is poised to have significant implications for a race that is currently wide open, with recent opinion polls indicating that Hilton and his chief Republican opponent, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, are the leading contenders.

Trump took to the social media platform Truth Social to express his support for Hilton, stating, “He is a truly fine man, one who has watched as this once great State has gone to Hell.” He also criticized incumbent Governor Gavin Newsom, labeling him with the derogatory nickname “Gavin Newscum.” Newsom is currently in the final year of his term and is considering a run for the presidency in 2028.

In his endorsement, Trump asserted that the Democrats, led by Newsom, have performed “an absolutely horrendous job.” He highlighted issues such as rising crime, exorbitant taxes, and an exodus of residents from California. “Steve can turn it around, before it is too late, and, as President, I will help him to do so! With Federal help,” Trump declared.

Hilton’s campaign reacted positively to the endorsement, calling it “powerful.” In a statement posted on X, they said, “Thank you, Mr. President! This is the moment California has been waiting for!”

Despite California being a predominantly Democratic state, a recent poll conducted by UC Berkeley’s Institute of Governmental Studies and co-sponsored by the Los Angeles Times has showed Hilton and Bianco leading a crowded field of candidates just months ahead of the June 2 primary. The poll suggests that a split among Democratic candidates could pave the way for Republicans, with the possibility of the November election not featuring any Democratic candidates.

Under California’s unique top-two primary system, the two candidates with the most votes will advance to the general election, irrespective of party affiliation. This could mean a significant shift if Trump’s endorsement unifies Republican voters behind Hilton, potentially undercutting Bianco’s campaign and reducing the chances of two GOP candidates making it to the general election.

In the 2018 gubernatorial race, Trump’s endorsement helped Republican businessman John Cox secure a spot in the primary, ultimately leading to a second-place finish, although he was soundly defeated by Newsom in the general election.

Trump’s endorsement comes shortly after a fiery debate between Hilton and Bianco, moderated by Richard Grenell, a former ambassador to Germany under Trump. Just days later, the California Republican Party will meet in San Diego to discuss endorsements for the race.

Bianco had anticipated Trump’s involvement, mentioning that his team had been in discussions with the former president’s advisors. “Of course, I would want him to support me. He’s the president of the United States,” he said in an interview. In contrast, Hilton had expressed skepticism about whether Trump would weigh in, stating, “I’ve said that I’d be honored to have the President’s endorsement. I think that the California Governor’s race is pretty low on his [agenda] right now.”

The timing of Trump’s endorsement is believed to be strategic. Jon Fleischman, former executive director of the California Republican Party, wrote on Substack that the endorsement could significantly increase Hilton’s support among GOP voters, emphasizing that “this Timing Is Not Accidental.” He noted the uncertainty surrounding whether either candidate could secure the necessary 60% of delegate votes to gain the party’s endorsement at the upcoming convention, suggesting that Trump’s backing would boost Hilton’s momentum.

The California gubernatorial race is shaping up to be a crucial battle, not just for the future of the state, but for the Republican Party as it seeks to gain a foothold in a historically blue state. With the primaries just around the corner, all eyes will be on how Trump’s endorsement influences voter sentiment and candidate positioning.