Steve Hilton announces candidacy for California governor in 2026 election

In California, conservative commentator Steve Hilton has entered the race for the 2026 gubernatorial election. He made his official announcement during an event in Huntington Beach, aiming to replace the current governor, Gavin Newsom, who is barred from seeking a third term due to state law. Hilton, who previously served as a senior advisor to former UK Prime Minister David Cameron, has articulated his commitment to addressing the significant challenges the state faces, including high taxes, poverty, and the effects of a one-party political system. He aims to reconnect California with its reputation as a land of opportunity through his campaign theme, 'Golden Again: Great Jobs, Great Homes, Great Kids.' Hilton's political platform emphasizes practical solutions over ideology, which he believes can help improve life for working families in California. By drawing from his experiences in both the UK and California, he hopes to bring about significant reforms to address what he categorizes as 'Califailure'. The state has seen dramatic socio-economic changes, rising costs of living, and high rates of poverty, leading many residents to struggle to meet their basic needs. Hilton's background in tech entrepreneurship, particularly his co-founding of a Silicon Valley tech start-up, aligns with his vision for revitalizing the state's economy and encouraging business growth. As he enters the crowded gubernatorial race, Steve Hilton is competing against several notable Democratic candidates, including former U.S. Health Secretary Xavier Becerra and Katie Porter, along with Republican candidate Chad Bianco, a sheriff in Riverside County. This diverse candidate pool underscores the competitive nature of the upcoming election as voters decide on their next governor. The 2026 election is seen as a pivotal moment for California as it grapples with pressing issues like homelessness, environmental crises, and regulatory challenges that have long plagued the state. Hilton's entry into the race is significant not only because of his personal history and political affiliations but also because of the potential implications for California's political landscape moving forward. Ultimately, Hilton's campaign will focus on his vision to restore California's former glory by tackling the issues head-on that he believes have contributed to its current predicament. His supporters hope that his approach will resonate with voters looking for change in a state they view as experiencing decline due to its leadership. With his recent announcements, the 2026 race for California governor is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched contests in the coming political cycle, as candidates vie for the opportunity to shape the future of the Golden State.