Reported by Watch World Media
SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA — Republican gubernatorial candidate is making a forceful final argument to California voters as ballots continue to be counted in the state’s closely watched 2026 gubernatorial primary.
Hilton has positioned himself as a political outsider capable of delivering change in a state dominated by Democratic leadership for more than a decade, framing the election as a referendum on California’s economic direction, affordability crisis, public safety concerns, and cost of living.
Hilton’s Closing Message
Speaking during the final stretch of the campaign, Hilton argued that growing voter dissatisfaction with the direction of the state creates an opening for political change.
“A majority of Californians — 56 percent think the state is headed in the wrong direction and needs change,” Hilton said.
“But it’s only gonna happen if we get a Republican in the top two… there’s only one candidate that can get in the top two that represents change and that’s me.”
Throughout the campaign, Hilton has criticized what he describes as the consequences of long-term one-party rule under Democratic administrations, including those of former Governor Jerry Brown and Governor Gavin Newsom.
His campaign focused heavily on issues such as:
- High taxes and cost of living
- Housing affordability
- Rising energy and gasoline prices
- Homelessness and public safety
- Regulatory and environmental restrictions
Hilton has proposed suspending certain environmental regulations to reduce fuel costs, cutting income taxes, and expanding housing development through regulatory reform.
Background on Steve Hilton
Originally from the United Kingdom, Hilton previously served as a senior adviser to former British Prime Minister David Cameron before relocating to California in 2012.
He later became a conservative media personality and hosted a program on from 2017 to 2023.
Hilton has also been involved in technology and political fundraising ventures and received support from conservative figures aligned with President .
His campaign slogan and broader message have centered on making California “Golden Again” through economic reform, reduced bureaucracy, and increased accountability in state government.
Early Results Show Competitive Race
California’s gubernatorial primary operates under a top-two system, meaning the two highest vote-getters advance to the general election regardless of party affiliation.
As of June 3, 2026, early returns showed Hilton either leading or closely competing for one of the two runoff positions.
Preliminary vote totals indicated:
- Hilton holding roughly 27–28%
- following closely with approximately 25–26%
- trailing in third place with around 20%
- Additional Republican candidates, including , remaining behind the leading contenders
Because California counts mail-in and provisional ballots over several days, final standings may continue shifting before certification.
A Test of California’s Political Mood
Although California remains one of the nation’s most Democratic-leaning states, polling throughout the campaign has shown broad voter frustration over affordability and quality-of-life concerns.
Hilton’s campaign has sought to capitalize on those frustrations by presenting himself as a reform-oriented alternative to the state’s political establishment.
Political analysts note, however, that Republicans still face a steep challenge in statewide California races, where Democrats continue to hold major registration advantages.
Most major election forecasters still rate the general election as favoring Democrats.
National Attention on the Race
The contest has drawn national political interest because it could become one of the most competitive California gubernatorial races in years if Hilton secures a runoff position.
For Republicans, the race represents an opportunity to test whether economic dissatisfaction and public frustration can overcome the state’s longstanding Democratic dominance.
For Democrats, the election serves as a test of whether the party can maintain voter confidence amid mounting concerns over housing, crime, and affordability.
Looking Ahead
As ballot counting continues, California voters are expected to learn in the coming days which two candidates will officially advance to the November general election.
Regardless of the final outcome, Hilton’s performance has already intensified debate over the political future of California and whether voter dissatisfaction could reshape the state’s traditionally predictable electoral landscape.
Reporting from Sacramento, California, this is Watch World Media.
Watch World Media will continue bringing coverage of the 2026 election cycle, gubernatorial races, and the political developments shaping America’s future.