Steve Hilton launches campaign for California governor

Republican Steve Hilton has officially entered the race to become California’s next governor in 2026, shaking up the upcoming gubernatorial election. The former Fox News contributor and author of “Califailure” is determined to “Make California Golden Again” and prioritize the needs of the working people in the state.

In an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital, Hilton expressed his love for California and his concerns about the state’s current trajectory after 15 years of one-party rule by the Democrats. He believes that the 2026 election is a critical moment for California, as continued Democratic control could lead to rapid deterioration.

Hilton, who was born in the U.K. and served as a senior advisor to former British Prime Minister David Cameron, compared California to Britain in the 1970s, describing it as the “sick man of America.” After moving to California in 2012, Hilton co-founded a Silicon Valley tech start-up company, embracing the American entrepreneurial spirit.

With a background in conservative media and his own show on Fox News Channel, Hilton is now focused on bringing change to the blue state. Despite Democrats holding a supermajority in the legislature, a recent poll indicated that nearly half of likely California voters would consider backing a Republican for governor.

The upcoming gubernatorial race is already attracting a diverse range of candidates, including Democratic contenders like Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, former Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, and former Rep. Katie Porter. On the Republican side, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco is also vying for the job.

Hilton is determined to address the pressing issues facing California, such as wildfires, crime, homelessness, and fiscal management. The state has seen a significant exodus of residents in recent years, attributed to high costs of living, taxes, and housing.

Despite these challenges, Hilton remains optimistic about California’s potential for positive change. He believes that the state, once known for upward mobility and opportunity, can regain its status as the epitome of the American dream.

As the gubernatorial race heats up, all eyes are on California as it navigates its future under new leadership. With Hilton’s entry into the race, the political landscape in the Golden State is sure to see further shifts and developments in the coming months.