CA Republicans Divided Over Hilton-Bianco Governor Race as Trump Weighs In

Trump's endorsement of Steve Hilton sparks debate among delegates at state GOP convention.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 12:24am

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A vibrant, abstract painting featuring the California state capitol building repeated in overlapping, fractured geometric shapes in warm orange, deep red, and bright blue hues, conveying the turbulent political climate and divided Republican party.The California GOP convention reveals deep divisions within the party as it grapples with endorsements and unity ahead of the crucial gubernatorial primary.San Diego Today

California Republicans remain split at their statewide convention over backing former Fox News host Steve Hilton or Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco for governor. The race has been further complicated by Donald Trump's recent endorsement of Hilton, which has sparked debate among delegates about its potential impact in the heavily Democratic state.

Why it matters

The Republican gubernatorial primary is seen as a key test of the party's ability to unite ahead of the general election, where they will face off against likely Democratic candidates like Eric Swalwell and Katie Porter. Trump's endorsement of Hilton could sway some conservative voters, but could also alienate moderates and independents in the general election.

The details

Delegates and party activists expressed a mix of enthusiasm and division, with some calling for unity and others firmly backing their preferred candidate. Some Republicans questioned the timing and effectiveness of Trump's endorsement, noting it could backfire in a state with many Democratic and independent voters. Others said the endorsement strengthens Hilton's position. Both Hilton and Bianco downplayed concerns about how the endorsement could shape the primary outcome or the possibility of two Republicans advancing under California's top-two system.

  • The California Republican convention is taking place on April 12, 2026.
  • Trump endorsed Steve Hilton for governor prior to the convention.

The players

Steve Hilton

A former Fox News host who is running for the Republican nomination for California governor.

Chad Bianco

The Riverside County Sheriff who is also running for the Republican nomination for California governor.

Donald Trump

The former president who has endorsed Steve Hilton in the California governor's race.

Eric Swalwell

A Democratic gubernatorial candidate who is facing recent allegations, which could reshape the race.

Katie Porter

A Democratic gubernatorial candidate who could face off against the Republican nominee in the general election.

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What they’re saying

“We can just vote on June the second. We need to get conservative Republicans off their couches and get out and vote.”

— Jason Hopkins, San Benito County delegate

“The endorsement might backfire. California's broader electorate includes many Democrats and independents.”

— Matthew Munson, San Bernardino County delegate

“He should've weighed in at the general election.”

— Jason Hopkins, San Benito County delegate

“California will be well served under both. We've got Trump's endorsement... so that's the way to go.”

— Caren Cooke Ryan, Hilton volunteer

“It's almost like a lifeline. My campaign strategy remains unchanged.”

— Chad Bianco, Riverside County Sheriff

What’s next

The California Republican primary election will be held on June 2, 2026. The two top vote-getters, regardless of party, will advance to the general election in November.

The takeaway

The Republican gubernatorial primary in California has become a test of the party's ability to unite behind a single candidate, as the two leading contenders - Steve Hilton and Chad Bianco - continue making their case to delegates. Trump's endorsement of Hilton has added another layer of complexity, sparking debate over its potential impact in the heavily Democratic state.