Trump Backs Steve Hilton for California Governor Amidst Unpredictable Race
Former US President Donald Trump has formally endorsed Steve Hilton, a former top adviser to ex-British Prime Minister David Cameron, in his bid for California Governor. In a post on Truth Social, Mr Trump declared that Mr Hilton would "be a great governor", criticising the "horrendous job" done by Democrats in the state and highlighting an exodus of residents.
The California Landscape
California, a staunchly Democratic state, has not seen a Republican win a statewide election in two decades. Mr Hilton is one of ten candidates vying in the upcoming 2 June primary. The top two vote-getters, irrespective of party affiliation, will proceed to the general election.
Mr Hilton, who now resides in California, previously served as a key aide to Mr Cameron from 2010 to 2012. He later became a vocal critic of the then-Conservative Prime Minister's immigration policies. Subsequently, he hosted a programme on Fox News for several years and remains a contributor to the conservative network. His campaign focuses on reducing taxes and state expenditure, aiming to alleviate housing and other costs for families.
Impact of Trump's Endorsement
While Mr Hilton expressed being "deeply honoured" by Mr Trump's endorsement, this backing could prove a challenge should he face a Democrat in the liberal-leaning state's November election. Furthermore, Mr Trump's support may marginalise fellow Republican candidate, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, potentially opening a clearer path for a Democratic contender to secure a top-two finish.
A recent poll from the University of California, Berkeley's Institute of Governmental Studies caused a stir by suggesting Mr Hilton and Mr Bianco were ahead of the Democratic hopefuls, prompting some senior state party officials to urge certain Democratic candidates to withdraw from the race.
