Republican Steve Hilton, a former UK political operative and Fox News personality, secured one of the top two spots in California's gubernatorial primary, setting up a general election showdown with Democrat Xavier Becerra. The race pits a recent immigrant backed by Donald Trump against a veteran Democratic officeholder who served as U.S. health secretary under President Biden.
Becerra, a former congressman and state attorney general, now positions himself as the defensive line against a Trump-aligned candidate in a deeply blue state. Hilton's success suggests a potential realignment of voter priorities, emphasizing public safety and economic concerns over traditional California progressive policies.
Hilton's endorsement from Trump signals a test of the former president's influence even in reliably Democratic strongholds. Becerra, meanwhile, consolidates the left flank after securing the backing of prominent progressive donor Tom Steyer, who conceded the primary and endorsed him. The party faces pressure to unify around Becerra to avoid vote-splitting in November.
Public opinion in California remains sharply polarized. While Democrats outnumber Republicans by nearly 2-to-1 in voter registration, Hilton's campaign has tapped into frustration with homelessness, crime, and high taxes. Early polling suggests a competitive race if turnout among moderate and independent voters leans Republican.
Analysts view this matchup as a bellwether for the GOP's ability to compete in multiracial, urban states. Hilton's status as a former Brexiteer and Trump ally may alienate some centrist voters, while Becerra must energize the progressive base without alienating swing voters.