Steve Hilton, the Republican candidate running for governor of California, warned Monday that incumbent Democrat Governor Gavin Newsom has a plan to ensure no Republicans advance to the general election in the state’s jungle primary system.
Hilton stated Newsom’s goal is to secure two Democrats in the top two spots so they compete on the left without highlighting his gubernatorial record as he prepares for the 2028 presidential campaign. “The real point right now is whether it will be me and another Democrat or two Democrats,” Hilton said. “And that’s what Gavin Newsom is trying to ensure here, because his only concern is his presidential campaign.”
Hilton accused Newsom of using a so-called “contingency plan” that reeks of corruption, arguing it demonstrates the arrogance of Democratic machine politics. He claimed Newsom’s strategy would enable California labor unions—spending millions through employee dues—to consolidate support behind Democrat candidates Xavier Becerra and Tom Steyer.
“The results are so bad,” Hilton added. “California has the highest poverty rate, highest unemployment rate, highest cost of living, chaos everywhere.”
Brian Jones, California Senate Minority Leader, echoed Hilton’s comments, stating labor unions fund Democratic campaigns through employee dues and taxpayers effectively finance their state’s decline. Hilton emphasized Republicans must unite to ensure a candidate advances to the general election, warning that failure would risk losing congressional seats, control of the state legislature, and voter ID protections.
