How Trump’s Endorsement in California Could Backfire Against Republicans

New York Times
by Laurel Rosenhall
April 7, 2026
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2 min read

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President Trump's endorsement of Steve Hilton in California's governor's race may inadvertently help Democrats.

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President Trump endorsed Republican Steve Hilton in the California governor's race. This endorsement could inadvertently benefit Democrats by preventing them from being shut out of the general election. California's top-two primary system often leads to two candidates from the same party advancing if one party's vote is highly consolidated. A strong Trump endorsement might fragment the Republican vote among multiple candidates, potentially allowing a Democrat to secure a spot in the general election. This scenario could complicate Republican efforts to gain ground in the state.

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Trump's Endorsement of Steve Hilton in California Governor Race

Former President Donald Trump has officially endorsed Republican Steve Hilton, a former Fox News host, in the California gubernatorial race. This endorsement signals Trump's continued influence in state-level politics and support for conservative candidates.

Trump Endorses Steve Hilton in California Governor's Race

President Donald Trump has officially endorsed former Fox News host Steve Hilton in the California governor's race. This endorsement signals Trump's continued influence in state-level politics and could shape the dynamics of the Republican primary.

Steve Hilton Endorsed by Trump in California Governor's Race

Former President Donald Trump has officially endorsed Steve Hilton, a former Fox News host, in the California governor's race. This endorsement signals Trump's direct involvement in the state's political landscape.

Trump Endorses Steve Hilton for California Governor

Former President Donald Trump has officially endorsed ex-Fox News host Steve Hilton in the California gubernatorial race. This endorsement signals Trump's direct involvement in state-level politics and his support for Hilton's campaign.

Trump Endorses Steve Hilton in California Governor's Race

President Donald Trump has officially endorsed former Fox News host Steve Hilton in the California governor's race. This endorsement signals Trump's direct involvement and aims to reorder the wide-open race for the state's top executive position.

Trump Endorses Steve Hilton for California Governor

President Donald Trump has officially endorsed Steve Hilton, a former UK political aide and ex-Fox News host, for California governor. This endorsement reorders the wide-open race and signals Trump's direct involvement in the state's gubernatorial primary.

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