Supporters gather at the rally in Huntington Beach to kick off the campaign for California Governor.
Steve Hilton, former Fox News host, has announced his candidacy for governor of California in 2026. He aims to challenge the existing Democratic leadership, focusing on key issues such as tax reform and housing development. Hilton’s message stresses the need for change, as he believes California is facing a crisis under one-party rule. His campaign will highlight his policy proposals, including eliminating state income taxes for certain residents and reforming housing regulations. Despite the current voter landscape, Hilton expresses confidence in his ability to resonate with Californians seeking solutions.
In a significant political move, Steve Hilton, the former Fox News host, officially declared his candidacy for governor of California, aiming to fill the shoes of Democrat Gavin Newsom, who is stepping down due to term limits. Hilton, a Republican, made this announcement in the vibrant city of Huntington Beach, where he plans to host a rally to kick off his campaign.
Hilton’s message is clear: he believes that California is in crisis and that the Democratic “supermajority” is responsible for the state’s challenges. With a political landscape dominated by one-party rule for the last 15 years, he insists that it’s time for a new direction. To set the tone, Hilton expressed his feelings that California currently mirrors the troubles of the U.K. during the 1960s and 70s, a period marked by significant struggles.
Offering fresh perspectives, Hilton positions himself as a “positive populist.” He has authored a book titled “Califailure: Reversing the Ruin of America’s Worst-Run State,” where he discusses the perceived failures of state governance. One of his standout proposals includes the elimination of state income taxes for those earning under $100,000, a move he believes would ease the financial burden on many Californians.
Additionally, Hilton advocates for reducing regulations that he sees as stumbling blocks to housing development. He’s particularly keen on reforming the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), which he argues has hindered construction and made housing less accessible. In the realm of education, his focus is on improving transparency and accountability, aiming to identify and elevate the performance of teachers in the state’s schools.
As of February 10, the voter registration statistics in California show that Democrats constitute 45.27% of the electorate, while Republicans make up 25.22%, with no party preference voters being 22.34%. Despite these figures, Hilton is confident that many residents are eager for meaningful change. He stresses that Californians are seeking constructive solutions to pressing issues facing the state.
As he kicks off this ambitious campaign in Huntington Beach, Hilton highlights the success of the city’s conservative-led City Council as an encouraging sign of what Republican leadership can achieve. He joins a field of candidates that includes fellow Republicans like Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, alongside prominent Democrats who are also eyeing the gubernatorial seat.
Hilton moved to California in 2012 and became a U.S. citizen in 2021. He resides in the state with his wife, Rachel Whetstone, and their two children. Outside of politics, Hilton indulges in farming chickens, reflecting a down-to-earth side that adds a unique flair to his political persona. He has previously hosted “The Next Revolution” on Fox News until 2023 and founded Crowdpac, a tool enabling small donors to contribute to political campaigns.
This election will take place against a backdrop of ongoing debates surrounding crime, homelessness, and the rising cost of living. Hilton opposes what he sees as excessive taxation under current Democratic governance, noting the trend of residents leaving California in search of more affordable living conditions. His ultimate goal? To restore California as a beacon of the “American dream,” which he believes has been threatened by the current leadership.
As we approach the 2026 gubernatorial election, all eyes will be on candidates like Hilton and the ideas they bring to the table in hopes of revitalizing a state eager for change.
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