Steve Hilton, a former adviser to ex-UK Prime Minister David Cameron, has secured a spot in the California governor’s race, edging out billionaire climate activist Tom Steyer. Hilton, who has been endorsed by President Donald Trump, will face former Biden administration health secretary Xavier Becerra in the general election in November. This development marks a significant shift in the state’s political landscape.
Hilton, a British-born candidate, will now compete against Becerra, a California native who served as the state’s attorney general and the nation’s health secretary under President Joe Biden. The contest has become the most expensive California governor’s race on record, with immense ad spending by Steyer and Silicon Valley support for another Democratic candidate.
California Governor’s Race
The California governor’s race has drawn national attention, with over 60 candidates, mostly Democrats, vying to replace current term-limited Governor Gavin Newsom. Hilton, who has never held elected office before, has said that if he wins, he will not mirror other California politicians. He has risen to fame in the US, in part, due to Trump’s endorsement.
Hilton’s background is marked by unconventional moments, including greeting former President Barack Obama in his socks and referring to Cameron as “Dave”. He has also made headlines for eye-catching policy ideas, such as abolishing maternity leave. In 2012, he moved to the US from the UK and began a six-year stint hosting a television show on Fox News.
Becerra, on the other hand, has framed his campaign around his lifetime of work in politics and his credibility working both in Congress and in California state office. He has vowed to fight Trump’s policies and promised to freeze insurance and utility rates for Californians. If elected, he would be California’s first Latino governor since 1875.
Implications and Reactions
The outcome of the California governor’s race will have significant implications for the state’s policies, from immigration to climate change. Hilton’s victory would mark the first Republican governor in 15 years to run the liberal-leaning state. Becerra’s campaign has been boosted by his experience and credibility, and he is expected to put up a strong fight against Hilton.
The contest between Hilton and Becerra will be closely watched, with both candidates vying for the support of California’s diverse population. The state’s multibillion-dollar budget, thousands of state employees, and hundreds of state agencies will be overseen by the winner, making this election crucial for the state’s future. The broader significance of this election lies in its potential to shape the political landscape of the US, as California is often seen as a bellwether state for national trends.
