As primary results trickle in for California’s gubernatorial race, Steve Hilton—the Republican candidate endorsed by President Trump—has emerged as the leader with 27.8% of the vote. The contest to replace Governor Gavin Newsom remains tight, but a significant portion of precincts have reported.
President Trump recently congratulated Hilton on social media: “Congratulations to Steve Hilton on coming in first, last night, in the California Vote for Governor. If Californians are smart, which I know they are, they will put Steve into the Governor’s Mansion, and watch their State get better at a rate that has probably never been seen before. I know Steve — He is a hard driving WINNER, and he will turn California around, quickly — and the Federal Government will be there, with him, to help!”
Hilton, a former Fox News host, entered election night as the candidate most likely to unseat the incumbent in a state that has been Democratic for decades. Current results show Hilton leading with 27.8%, followed by Becerra (a former Biden administration health secretary) at 25.7%. Progressive billionaire Tom Steyer trails in third with 19.8%, while Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco holds fourth place with 11.2%.
In a recent interview, Hilton stated: “I think this state is ready for change, and tonight’s results show that we’re not taking anything for granted.” He also criticized Democratic politicians, saying they had become “a little bit arrogant” and were “in for a big shock.”
However, the race remains uncertain as nearly half of the vote has been counted. Officials report a potential “flood of ballots coming in the wee hours of the morning,” which could alter the outcome. Additionally, mail-in ballots arriving up to a week later or longer may also impact the results.
The top two finishers will advance to a November runoff election. Until the final count is complete, the race for California’s governor remains in flux.