Republican Steve Hilton tops instant poll after first California governor debate

Hilton, the only Republican in the debate, made the best impression on audiences according to an instant poll.

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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Steve Hilton, the Republican candidate for California governor, made the best impression on audiences during the state's first gubernatorial debate on Tuesday, according to an instant poll conducted by Fox Local. Hilton, the former Fox News host, saw 53% of respondents say he made the best impression in the first half of the debate, with the remaining Democrats splitting the rest of the votes.

Why it matters

The strong performance by the Republican candidate in a heavily Democratic state like California is noteworthy, as it could signal a shift in voter sentiment ahead of the upcoming gubernatorial election. Hilton's ability to stand out among a crowded field of Democratic candidates also highlights the potential for a competitive race.

The details

Hilton, the only Republican in the seven-candidate debate, touted his business experience and vowed to take a 'sledgehammer to our bloated, bureaucratic nanny state' if elected. He also criticized the current Democratic governor, Gavin Newsom, over high taxes in the state. Hilton's campaign has also raised the most money of any candidate, excluding self-funded Democratic billionaire Tom Steyer, with nearly $6 million in funds from 30,000 individual contributions.

  • The first California gubernatorial debate took place on February 3, 2026.

The players

Steve Hilton

The Republican candidate for California governor and former Fox News host.

Matt Mahan

The newest Democratic entry into the California governor's race, who came in second in the instant poll with 17% of the vote.

Gavin Newsom

The current Democratic governor of California, whose leadership Hilton criticized during the debate.

Tom Steyer

A self-funded Democratic billionaire candidate for California governor.

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What they’re saying

“I won the debate because I told the truth about the total disaster of 16 years of Democrat one party rule, the fraud, the waste, the corruption, and the cost of living that sky hide for regular working Californians.”

— Steve Hilton (The California Post)

“What was interesting to me in the debate last night was all the Democrats sounded the same. They sounded the same as each other and it all sounded the same as what we've got now.”

— Steve Hilton (The California Post)

“When I get to Sacramento, I will take a sledgehammer to our bloated, bureaucratic nanny state, and I will enjoy doing it.”

— Steve Hilton (The California Post)

What’s next

The next California gubernatorial debate is scheduled for March 1, 2026.

The takeaway

Hilton's strong performance in the first California governor debate, as the only Republican candidate, highlights the potential for a competitive race in a traditionally Democratic state. His ability to stand out and appeal to voters could signal a shift in the political landscape ahead of the upcoming election.