How a Trump-Endorsed Republican Could Become California’s Next Governor

The New Yorker Radio Hour explores the surprising rise of Steve Hilton, a British-born political consultant and former Fox News host endorsed by Donald Trump, as a leading candidate in California's gubernatorial race. Despite California's deep Democratic leanings and Trump's unpopularity in the state, Hilton has maintained a modest lead in polls due to the state's unique top-two primary system, which allows the two highest vote-getters—regardless of party—to advance to the general election. Hilton argues that California's 16 years of one-party Democratic rule have led to catastrophic outcomes: the highest cost of living, worst business climate, and lowest opportunity rankings in the U.S. He positions himself as a pragmatic reformer focused on cutting bureaucracy, increasing oil and gas production, and tackling government waste through his initiative, CalDoge—a campaign-driven effort using AI to audit public spending. Hilton frames his candidacy as a response to desperation for change, emphasizing practical results over political rhetoric. He downplays his ideological alignment with Trump, focusing instead on policy impact and efficiency, while distancing himself from controversial aspects of Trump’s leadership and rhetoric. The episode raises broader questions about political identity, the role of media figures in governance, and whether California’s future lies in radical reform or continuity.