Republican candidate Steve Hilton secured the top spot in California's June 2026 gubernatorial primary to advance to the general election [1].
The result marks a significant shift in the state's political landscape, as a Republican candidate has emerged as the frontrunner in a heavily Democratic state.
Hilton finished the primary with 27.8% vote share [2]. He was followed by Xavier Becerra, who received 24.5% [2], and Tom Steyer, who earned 19.6% [2]. Chad Bianco trailed with 11% [2].
Hilton said the state needs a decisive reset. He said the current political direction in California is dominated by ideology and that voters are ready for a change in leadership.
"Change is coming to California," Hilton said [3].
He also said that the state has had enough ideology and that voters are seeking a Republican reset to address their concerns [3], [4].
Following the primary results reported on June 8 and 9, Hilton is now positioned to challenge Becerra in the general election scheduled for November 2026 [1], [5]. Hilton has also criticized the California election system in the wake of Spencer Pratt's loss [1].
"We've had enough ideology," Hilton said [3].
“Change is coming to California”
Hilton's primary victory signals a potential appetite for conservative governance in California, a state typically viewed as a Democratic stronghold. By positioning himself against 'ideology,' Hilton is attempting to capture a centrist or frustrated electorate, setting up a high-stakes ideological clash with Becerra in the November general election.
