California Governor Primary: Conservative Momentum Challenges Liberal Stronghold
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Vote counting continues in California's governor primary, with Republican Steve Hilton and establishment Democrat Xavier Becerra leading, while radical leftist Tom Steyer lags behind.
The primary election for California’s governorship remains undecided as vote counting continues, with the state’s future hanging in the balance. Republican Steve Hilton, a fresh voice endorsed by President Trump, and establishment Democrat Xavier Becerra are currently leading, while far-left billionaire Tom Steyer trails in third place.
California’s so-called ‘open’ primary system, which puts all candidates on a single ballot regardless of party, has led to a chaotic field of 60 contenders, diluting the conservative vote and favoring entrenched liberal interests. Despite this, Hilton—a former Fox News commentator with international experience and connections to former British Prime Minister David Cameron—has surged thanks to Trump’s backing and a growing demand for real change after 16 years of failed Democratic leadership. At his watch party, Hilton celebrated surpassing one million votes, declaring, “Change is coming to California and it’s long overdue,” echoing the frustration of millions tired of progressive mismanagement.
Becerra, a career politician and former Health and Human Services secretary, has built his campaign on opposition to President Trump rather than offering real solutions to California’s mounting problems. Despite polling in single digits just months ago, Becerra has relied on identity politics and establishment support to claw his way to the top. At his Los Angeles watch party, he said, “Like my parents, I never gave up,” attempting to appeal to emotion rather than policy.
Steyer, a radical billionaire activist, has dumped over $213 million into his campaign to push a far-left agenda, including extreme climate policies and government overreach. Despite his massive spending, he remains in third place, telling supporters, “We’re going to wait until every ballot is counted,” as he clings to hope for a progressive upset.
This year’s election has seen a surprising shift, with Republicans embracing early mail-in voting—a tactic long dominated by Democrats—demonstrating the adaptability and enthusiasm of the conservative base.
Notably, leading Democrats like Kamala Harris and Alex Padilla opted out of the race, perhaps unwilling to face the growing backlash against liberal policies. The campaign was further rocked by the sudden withdrawal of former Representative Eric Swalwell amid serious allegations, highlighting the persistent scandals plaguing Democratic leadership.