California’s gubernatorial primary results indicate a potential Republican governor could take office this November, with Trump-endorsed candidate Steve Hilton leading the race in a tight contest against Democratic incumbents.
President Donald J. Trump recently praised Hilton on Truth Social for securing first place in the California vote, pledging to support the candidate should he win the November election. In his statement, Trump wrote: “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!”
As of late Tuesday, nearly half of the votes had been counted in the primary. Hilton currently holds 27.8% of the vote, with Becerra, a former Biden administration health secretary, at 26.9%. Progressive billionaire Tom Steyer trails at 19.8%, while Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco remains behind at 11.2%.
Hilton, who entered the race as a potential disruptor to California’s Democratic stronghold, stated in an exclusive interview that “change is coming” for the state and that voters are “not taking anything for granted.” He also criticized current Democratic politicians, saying: “I think they got a little bit arrogant… I think they’re in for a big shock. The people of California are not happy with the way things are going in this state.”
The race’s outcome remains uncertain as ballot counting continues. Reports indicate that a flood of mail-in ballots arriving late could impact the results, raising concerns about the process. Once the primary is called, the top two finishers will compete in a November runoff election.
