President Trump Endorses Steve Hilton in California Governor's Race

President Donald Trump has endorsed Republican Steve Hilton for California governor, potentially reshaping the state's upcoming election. Trump announced his support late Sunday on his social media platform, Truth Social, stating he has known Hilton for years and describing him as "a truly fine man" capable of addressing California's challenges, including high taxes.

The endorsement comes ahead of California's June 2 primary, which employs a "top-two" system where all candidates, regardless of party affiliation, appear on the same ballot, and the two with the most votes advance to the general election. The race features over 50 candidates, including prominent Democrats such as U.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell, former Rep. Katie Porter, and billionaire activist Tom Steyer, as well as Hilton's main Republican rival, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco.

Hilton, a former Fox News host and advisor to British Prime Minister David Cameron, expressed gratitude for Trump's endorsement, pledging to focus on economic reforms and reducing living costs.

While the endorsement may bolster Hilton's standing among conservative voters, it could present challenges in the general election, given Trump's unpopularity in heavily Democratic California.

Democrats are concerned that the crowded field and the state's primary system could result in two Republicans advancing to the November election, potentially excluding a Democratic candidate from the ballot.

Republicans have not won a statewide election in California in two decades, and registered Democratic voters outnumber Republicans in the state by nearly 2-to-1.