Steve Hilton Secures Spot in California Gubernatorial Run, Beats Tom Steyer

Steve Hilton, a former adviser to former UK Prime Minister David Cameron and ex-Fox News host, has qualified as one of two candidates advancing to the November California gubernatorial election, according to media reports. The result follows the June 2 primary count, in which Hilton finished ahead of Democratic billionaire Tom Steyer, a climate activist.

President Donald Trump publicly endorsed Hilton, who would become the first Republican governor in the state in 15 years if elected. More than 60 candidates, primarily Democrats, were on the ballot to replace term-limited Governor Gavin Newsom, who has been mentioned as a potential future presidential candidate.

Hilton will now compete with state Senator Alex Becerra for the governorship, a position that oversees a multibillion-dollar budget, thousands of state employees and hundreds of agencies. If elected, Hilton would also be California’s first Latino governor since 1875, in a state where Latinos comprise about 41% of the population.

Hilton has highlighted his experience in both Washington and California politics. He noted, "When people say, 'How are you going to win in California as a Republican?' My question is, how will a Democrat win based on the record that they are putting before the people?"

The campaign follows the withdrawal of Democratic Representative Eric Swalwell in April after allegations of sexual assault, which he has denied. The race has attracted significant advertising expenditures, with Steyer and Silicon Valley backing another Democratic contender, San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan.

Hilton, who has never held elected office, said he would not follow the typical approach of California politicians if he wins. He previously served as a senior aide to Cameron from 2010 to 2012, later criticizing the former prime minister’s immigration stance and the UK’s Brexit strategy. After moving to the United States in 2012, he hosted a Fox News program from 2017 to 2023.