POLITICS

Trump endorses Steve Hilton reshaping California governor's race

PUBLISHED Apr 6, 2026, 10:32 AM ET

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 8

Center 75%

Right 25%

Sources: 8

Los Angeles. President Donald Trump on late Sunday posted on Truth Social endorsing conservative commentator Steve Hilton for California governor, calling him 'a truly fine man' and criticizing state policies; the endorsement arrives about a month before mail ballots are scheduled to be mailed ahead of the June 2, 2026 primary. The endorsement immediately boosts Hilton's profile and may consolidate conservative support in the crowded Republican primary, elevating rivals such as Chad Bianco; however, Trump remains widely unpopular statewide, potentially turning the endorsement into a general-election liability if a Democrat reaches the November ballot under California's top-two primary system.

By Najma A. | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Late Sunday (May 2026): Trump posts endorsement of Steve Hilton on Truth Social.
Early May 2026: Polling shows Hilton and Chad Bianco as top Republican contenders.
About one month before June 2, 2026: mail ballots are scheduled to be mailed to voters.
June 2, 2026: California top-two primary election day.
Post-primary: Analysts assess whether endorsement aided Hilton in advancing and potential effects for November.

News Intelligence

Trump's endorsement of Hilton could sway the California governor's race. If you're a voter, this might influence your decision. If you're not, it could still affect state policies that impact your life. Keep an eye on the June 2 primary.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 8
Right Leaning:: 2
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 6

Who Benefited

Steve Hilton and aligned conservative groups benefited from national visibility, increased fundraising, media attention, and potential consolidation of primary voters following President Trump's endorsement.

Who Impacted

Other Republican candidates risked losing conservative support and the general-election prospects for Republicans could be complicated by Trump's unpopularity across much of California's statewide electorate.

Media Bias