Trump's Endorsement of Hilton Could Make Room for a Democrat on Nov. Ballot

The former president's support for the Republican candidate may consolidate GOP voters, but it could also open the door for a Democratic victory in the California governor's race.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 5:04am

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A serene, cinematic painting depicting a lone campaign sign or billboard in a dimly lit urban setting, with warm sunlight casting dramatic shadows across the scene, conveying a sense of political uncertainty and transition.Trump's surprise endorsement of a Republican candidate could open the door for a Democratic victory in the California governor's race, a shift that would reverberate across the state's political landscape.San Jose Today

In a surprising move, former President Donald Trump endorsed Republican Steve Hilton for California governor, potentially shaking up the crowded race. Trump's endorsement could consolidate Republican voters behind Hilton, reducing the chances of a 1-2 Republican finish in the primary that would have guaranteed a GOP victory in November. However, this could also open the door for a Democratic candidate to advance to the general election, with former Congresswoman Katie Porter, billionaire Tom Steyer, and Congressman Eric Swalwell emerging as the top contenders.

Why it matters

California's Democratic Party has been concerned about the possibility of two Republicans finishing first and second in the state's June primary election, which would guarantee a Republican victory in the November general election. Trump's endorsement of Hilton could help the Republican candidate secure a spot in the top two, but it may also clear the way for a Democratic candidate to advance, potentially preventing a GOP takeover of the governorship in the deeply blue state.

The details

Trump endorsed Hilton, a former Fox News commentator, over Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, reducing the likelihood of a 1-2 Republican outcome in the primary. The Democrats' own poll showed Hilton and Bianco virtually tied, with percentage voter support in the mid-teens, while the eight serious Democratic candidates were no higher than 10% each. Trump's endorsement is expected to consolidate Republican voters behind Hilton, making it less likely that the two GOP candidates could each garner around 20% of the June 2 vote to advance to November under California's top-two primary system.

  • The June 2 primary election will determine the top two candidates who will advance to the November general election.
  • Mail voting for the primary election begins in about four weeks.

The players

Donald Trump

The former president of the United States who endorsed Republican Steve Hilton for California governor.

Steve Hilton

A Republican candidate for California governor who was endorsed by former President Donald Trump.

Chad Bianco

The Riverside County sheriff and a Republican candidate for California governor.

Katie Porter

A former Congresswoman who is running for California governor after losing the 2024 Senate race.

Tom Steyer

A billionaire who is one of the top Democratic candidates for California governor.

Eric Swalwell

A Congressman who is also one of the top Democratic candidates for California governor.

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What they’re saying

“'I have known and respected Steve Hilton, who is running for Governor of California, for many years. He is a truly fine man, one who has watched as this once great State has gone to Hell. Gavin Newscum and the Democrats have done an absolutely horrendous job. People are fleeing, crime is increasing, and Taxes are the highest of any State in the Country, maybe the World. Steve can turn it around, before it is too late, and, as President, I will help him to do so!'”

— Donald Trump

“'I'm grateful for the president's support. Together, we can turn things around and make California truly golden again.'”

— Steve Hilton, Republican Candidate for California Governor

“'Trump's endorsement of Steve Hilton likely frees up tens of millions of dollars for Democratic groups who would have otherwise had to spend heavily to elevate one of the two leading GOP gubernatorial candidates to avoid a Democratic lockout.'”

— Rob Pyers, California Target Book

What’s next

The June 2 primary election will determine the top two candidates who will advance to the November general election. Mail voting for the primary election begins in about four weeks, so the clock is ticking for the Democratic candidates to make a breakthrough and solidify their position.

The takeaway

Trump's endorsement of Steve Hilton could have unintended consequences for the California governor's race, potentially opening the door for a Democratic candidate to advance to the general election and prevent a Republican takeover of the governorship in the deeply blue state. The crowded field of Democratic candidates, including Katie Porter, Tom Steyer, and Eric Swalwell, will need to quickly sort out their strategy to capitalize on this unexpected development.