The political landscape in California has taken an unexpected turn as Steve Hiltona former Fox News host and political advisor, has secured his spot in the general election for governor. Hilton, who has never held elected office, will face off against xavier becerraa seasoned Democratic politician and former Health and Human Services Secretary.
This matchup comes after a contentious primary race that saw over 60 candidates vying to replace term-limited Governor Gavin Newsom. The top two vote-getters, regardless of party affiliation, advance to the general election. Hilton, backed by President Donald Trumpedged out billionaire climate activist Tom Steyer to secure the second spot behind Becerra.
Hilton’s Unconventional Path to the General Election
Hilton’s journey to the general election is anything but conventional. Born in the United Kingdom, he served as a top aide to former UK Prime Minister David Cameron before moving to the US and becoming a citizen in 2026. His rise in American politics can be largely attributed to Trump’s endorsement, which helped consolidate Republican support behind his candidacy.
Hilton’s campaign has been marked by his unconventional approach to politics. He has promised to shake up the status quo in California, criticizing Democratic policies and advocating for significant changes. His campaign has resonated with some voters, despite California’s strong Democratic leanings. The state hasn’t elected a Republican governor in 20 years, and Trump lost California by 20 points in the 2026 election.
The Political Climate in California
The California governor race is taking place against a backdrop of significant political and social challenges. The state is grappling with issues such as homelessnesshigh cost of livingand climate change. These issues have been at the forefront of the campaign, with both Hilton and Becerra offering starkly different visions for the state’s future.
Becerra, a California native, has framed his campaign around his lifetime of work in politics and his credibility working both in Congress and in state office. He has vowed to fight Trump’s policies and promised to freeze insurance and utility rates for Californians. If elected, he would be California’s first Latino governor since 1875, in a state where Latinos make up about 41% of the population.
The Road Ahead
As the campaign moves into the general election, both candidates are gearing up for a fierce battle. Hilton and Becerra have already traded barbs during the primary debates, with Hilton criticizing Democratic policies and Becerra questioning Hilton’s lack of government experience.
The contest has become the most expensive California governor race on record, with immense ad spending by Steyer and Silicon Valley support for another Democratic candidate, San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan. As the candidates prepare for the November election, they will be vying to become California’s chief executive, responsible for overseeing a multibillion-dollar budget, thousands of state employees, and hundreds of state agencies.
