Trump promises federal action to ‘save’ California following ‘total endorsement’ of Steve Hilton

President slams ‘Gavin Newscum,’ backs Hilton’s gubernatorial bid to rescue a state ‘gone to hell’

BY SWATI SAKSHI MISHRA

PUBLISHED APR 6, 2026

An Iraqi soldier stands atop a damaged building at the Habbaniyah army base, following a Wednesday airstrike in Anbar province, Iraq, Thursday, March 26, 2026 (AP Photo/Laure Andrillon, File)

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump on Monday, April 6, announced a “COMPLETE & TOTAL ENDORSEMENT” of former Fox News host Steve Hilton in California’s 2026 gubernatorial race, immediately elevating the contest into a high-profile national battle.

In a Truth Social post, Trump criticized current state leadership and said Hilton would have strong federal support if elected.

President Trump endorses Republican Steve Hilton in California governor’s race pic.twitter.com/F1vCGbTpvF
— The American Conservative (@amconmag) April 6, 2026

Trump’s statement included sharp criticism of California’s policies on crime, taxation, and population trends, while describing Hilton as a candidate who “WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!!!”

‘Lockout’ strategy threatens Democratic field

Hilton is competing in California’s June 2 “top-two” primary, where the two highest vote-getters advance to the general election regardless of party.

With multiple Democratic candidates in the race, Republican strategists have suggested that vote-splitting could shape the outcome.

The Democratic field includes figures such as Rep Eric Swalwell, former Rep Katie Porter, and San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan.

Sheriff Chad Bianco of Riverside County speaks during a news conference at the U.S. Capitol on May 15, 2024 in Washington, DC. This week marks National Police Week, which sees thousands of police officers from departments across the country coming to Washington DC to honor law enforcement who died in the line of duty. (Photo by Kent Nishimura/Getty Images) — With the Democratic vote heavily fractured, polling suggests Republicans Steve Hilton and Chad Bianco are neck-and-neck to seize both runoff spots (Photo by Kent Nishimura/Getty Images)

Early polling indicates a fragmented race, with several candidates clustered within similar ranges of voter support.

Republican candidates, including Hilton and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, are also competing for positions in the primary.

Hilton blames ‘15 Years of One-Party Rule’

Hilton has centered his campaign on economic concerns, including housing affordability and cost of living.

He has attributed these issues to long-term policy decisions at the state level and has proposed a series of fiscal reforms.

MILL VALLEY, CA - MARCH 03: A customer pumps gasoline into his car at an Arco gas station on March — Steve Hilton has centered his campaign on a 'War on Fraud,' promising to audit a state budget that has nearly doubled in the last five years (Getty Images)

Among his proposals is a program aimed at reviewing state spending, as well as tax changes that would exempt a portion of income from state taxes.

Hilton has also outlined plans to reduce overall state expenditures.

Having lived in California since 2012, Hilton has framed his campaign as an alternative to established political leadership, emphasizing policy changes and administrative restructuring.

The ‘Law and Order’ Primary Battle

Trump’s endorsement adds momentum to Hilton’s campaign but also highlights competition within the Republican field. Sheriff Chad Bianco, another prominent candidate, has built support around public safety issues and has also appealed to conservative voters.

While both candidates are vocal fans of the President, Hilton has attacked Bianco for 'too much baggage,' as they battle to consolidate the conservative base (Screengrab/RCP)

Differences between the two candidates have surfaced during the campaign, including disagreements over past public actions and messaging strategies.

Hilton’s campaign welcomed Trump’s endorsement, stating that it would strengthen efforts heading into the primary.

With Governor Gavin Newsom term-limited, the race remains open and is expected to draw national attention as both parties compete for control of the state’s top office.