By Nicole Weatherholtz
Tuesday, April 7, 2026
California Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton said Tuesday that anti-Trump sentiment is paralyzing U.S. allies as tensions with Iran escalate and global shipping lanes remain blocked.
Hilton, who recently received an endorsement from President Donald Trump, argued that “Trump Derangement Syndrome”—a term he described as the primary reason many allied nations are refusing to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz despite sharing America’s strategic interests—is driving the inaction.
“It’s because they’re so pathetic they won’t stand up to their domestic political audiences,” Hilton said. He added that foreign leaders avoid cooperation with U.S. efforts due to fear of backlash from voters who oppose Trump, even when such collaboration would serve national security.
The British-American strategist called the allies’ reluctance to assist in reopening the Strait of Hormuz “incredible.” Hilton stated that international leaders are unwilling to risk political consequences at home when cooperation would benefit their own security. He noted that “Trump Derangement Syndrome” is even more pronounced globally than within the United States.
“Basically, whatever we think of in terms of Trump Derangement Syndrome here in America, I can tell you it’s far worse around the world,” Hilton said.
Hilton also claimed that allied nations are benefiting from U.S. leadership without contributing to efforts to address the crisis.
