CA GOP Convention Kicks Off Amid Sexual Assault Allegations Against Democratic Rival

Trump-backed endorsement of Steve Hilton sparks debates among Republican delegates in San Diego

Apr. 11, 2026 at 2:51am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A vibrant, fractured painting depicting the California state capitol building in overlapping geometric shapes and waves of deep blue, crimson red, and golden yellow, capturing the dynamic political debates and shifting power dynamics of the California gubernatorial race.The California GOP convention in San Diego is a battleground for the party's gubernatorial nomination, as allegations against a Democratic candidate add an unexpected twist to the high-stakes race.San Diego Today

As the California Republican Party convention gets underway in San Diego, the race for the GOP gubernatorial nomination is taking center stage, with delegates weighing whether to endorse either former Fox News host Steve Hilton or Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco. The contest has drawn additional attention after former President Donald Trump endorsed Hilton, a move that has shifted conversations among delegates. Meanwhile, allegations of sexual assault against Democratic gubernatorial candidate Eric Swalwell have also emerged, adding another layer of controversy to the race.

Why it matters

The California Republican Party's endorsement decision could have significant implications for the June primary and November general election, as the party seeks to regain control of the governor's office. The sexual assault allegations against Swalwell also have the potential to reshape the Democratic race and impact voter perceptions of the candidates.

The details

Republican delegates at the convention are debating whether to officially endorse either Steve Hilton or Chad Bianco as the party's gubernatorial candidate. Hilton has received the backing of former President Trump, which has influenced discussions among delegates. Meanwhile, Democratic candidate Eric Swalwell is facing allegations of sexual assault from a former staffer, which he has denied. The allegations have drawn criticism from Republican candidates and could impact Swalwell's campaign.

  • The California Republican Party convention is taking place in San Diego from April 11-13, 2026.
  • The California primary election is scheduled for June 2026.

The players

Steve Hilton

A former Fox News host who is one of the leading Republican candidates for California governor. He has received the endorsement of former President Donald Trump.

Chad Bianco

The Riverside County Sheriff and a leading Republican candidate for California governor, competing with Hilton for the party's endorsement.

Eric Swalwell

A Democratic candidate for California governor who is facing allegations of sexual assault from a former staffer, which he has denied.

Corrin Rankin

The Chair of the California Republican Party, who has commented on the impact of Trump's endorsement of Hilton.

David Tangipa

A Republican Assemblymember from Fresno who is attending the convention and emphasizing the importance of voter turnout.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We're ready to take over and we're ready to lead.”

— Corrin Rankin, California Republican Party Chair

“The choice people get is the difference between good and better. But what I'm hopeful for is that Republicans just show up.”

— David Tangipa, Republican Assemblymember from Fresno

“I think he has no business being in the position he's in.”

— Chad Bianco, Riverside County Sheriff and Republican gubernatorial candidate

“The allegations against Swalwell raise concerns for voters.”

— Steve Hilton, Former Fox News host and Republican gubernatorial candidate

What’s next

The California Republican Party will continue to debate and potentially endorse a candidate for governor at the convention, which runs through April 13th. The California primary election is scheduled for June 2026, where voters will have the opportunity to select the party's nominee.

The takeaway

The California Republican Party convention in San Diego has become a battleground for the party's gubernatorial nomination, with Trump-backed Steve Hilton and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco vying for the endorsement. Meanwhile, the sexual assault allegations against Democratic candidate Eric Swalwell have added another layer of controversy to the race, potentially reshaping the dynamics of the primary. The outcome of the convention and the June primary will be crucial in determining the direction of the California governor's race.