Trump endorses ex-UK political aide Steve Hilton for California governor

Donald Trump endorsed Steve Hilton, a former advisor to ex-British PM David Cameron, for California governor. Hilton is one of ten candidates running in the June 2 primary, where the top two finishers advance to the general election. Trump cited the Democrats' "horrendous job" and people fleeing the state as reasons for his endorsement. While Hilton expressed honor at receiving Trump's backing, it could be a disadvantage in the heavily Democratic state. Recent polling suggests Hilton and another Republican candidate are ahead of the Democratic contenders, prompting concern among state party officials. Hilton's platform focuses on lower taxes, budget cuts, and reducing housing costs.

Donald Trump endorsed former Fox News host Steve Hilton in the California governor's race on Monday via Truth Social. Hilton, a Republican, is running in California's "jungle primary" system, where the top two finishers advance to the November runoff. This endorsement complicates Republican strategy, which aimed for Hilton and another Republican candidate to split the conservative vote and secure both runoff spots. Hilton's platform, called "Califordable," focuses on lowering the cost of living through measures like reducing gas prices and energy costs, and eliminating state income tax for lower earners. The endorsement could trigger significant spending from Democratic groups to boost a single Republican candidate, potentially preventing a Republican shutout in the general election.