Steve Hilton, a former Fox News contributor, has officially announced his candidacy for the 2026 California gubernatorial race. Hilton aims to succeed current Governor Gavin Newsom, who is term-limited and cannot run again. In a recent interview, Hilton expressed his strong desire to restore California’s reputation and improve the lives of its residents, particularly working-class families.
Hilton, who is also the author of a book titled "Califailure," shared his concerns about the state’s current leadership. He believes that California is at a critical juncture, having been under one-party rule for 15 years. He stated, "After 15 years of one-party rule, this state is barely recognizable." Hilton emphasized that the upcoming election is crucial for the state’s future, warning that continued Democratic leadership could lead to further decline.
Born in the United Kingdom, Hilton moved to California in 2012 and has since embraced the entrepreneurial spirit of Silicon Valley. He co-founded a tech startup and hosted his own show, "The Next Revolution," on Fox News from 2017 to 2023. In his campaign announcement, he compared California’s current situation to the UK in the 1970s, referring to it as the "sick man of America."
Hilton’s campaign slogan, "Make California Golden Again," reflects his commitment to addressing issues like high taxes, homelessness, and crime. He pointed out that many Californians struggle to meet their basic needs, with high living costs driving people out of the state. Recent polls suggest that a significant portion of voters might be open to supporting a Republican candidate for governor, indicating a potential shift in the political landscape.
As Hilton enters the race, he joins a diverse group of candidates. On the Democratic side, potential contenders include Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis and former Health Secretary Xavier Becerra. Meanwhile, other Republicans, such as Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, are also vying for the position.
Hilton’s campaign reflects a growing frustration among Californians regarding the state’s leadership and policies. He aims to inspire voters to consider a new direction for California, one that he believes can restore its former glory as a land of opportunity. With the election still a few years away, Hilton’s announcement marks the beginning of what promises to be a contentious and closely watched race.