Huntington Beach, California, September 26, 2025
News Summary
California gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton has officially launched his campaign, criticizing Governor Gavin Newsom’s business policies. During a podcast interview, he highlighted a trend of companies leaving the state due to unfavorable conditions. Hilton proposes solutions like eliminating the state income tax for lower earners and building more affordable housing, while also addressing educational reforms. He emphasizes the need for a change in leadership to restore the ‘California dream’, as the upcoming election pits him against a historically strong Democratic base.
California gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton announced his official run on Monday, criticizing the business policies of current Governor Gavin Newsom. During a podcast interview with The Sun on Sunrise FM, Hilton highlighted a troubling trend reported by the Public Policy Institute of California, indicating that more companies are leaving the state due to unfavorable business conditions. He labeled Newsom’s leadership and social media engagement as “pathetic,” arguing that it has contributed to a decline in living standards under Democratic governance.
At his first significant campaign event held at the Huntington Beach pier, Hilton expressed that California Democrats have effectively destroyed the “California dream,” which he described as an “ideological experiment” fostering “far-left extremism.” This critique aligns with Hilton’s campaign focus on improving California’s business climate, which he claims has deteriorated under Newsom’s policies.
Hilton proposed several solutions aimed at reversing the current state’s course. Among his key points is the elimination of the state income tax for residents earning up to $100,000, the development of more affordable housing, and initiatives to enhance student performance in public schools. He specifically criticized California’s Green New Deal and the state’s ban on new gas-powered cars set for implementation in 2035, linking these policies to broader economic and social challenges.
Despite his claims that California holds the highest unemployment rate in the nation, data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics disputes this assertion, revealing variability among states. Nevertheless, Hilton remains optimistic about his campaign, showcasing backing from several prominent figures, including Trump allies like Vivek Ramaswamy and Charlie Kirk.
The upcoming gubernatorial election will utilize a jungle primary system, enabling the top two candidates to advance, which may allow a Republican candidate to secure a spot if Democrats divide their votes. Historically, California has seen statewide Republicans struggle since 2006, making Hilton’s path challenging, but skepticism about current Democratic leadership may give rise to unforeseen electoral dynamics.
Born to Hungarian immigrants who fled their homeland during a revolution, Hilton has a rich background in politics and business consulting before settling in California. He became a U.S. citizen in 2021 and has been vocal against pandemic-related shutdowns. Hilton further founded Golden Together, a research entity examining pressing issues such as business climate, homelessness, crime, affordable housing, and wildfires in California.
Hilton emphasized that California’s current political landscape bears implications beyond its borders, likely influencing the nation negatively. His campaign underscores a shift towards practical solutions for everyday challenges facing Californians in contrast to the ongoing ideological battles within state politics.
In conclusion, Steve Hilton’s gubernatorial campaign emerges at a critical moment for California as he aims to address economic and social issues exacerbated by current policies. His call-to-action seeks not only to improve the conditions in California but also aims to offer a model for other states grappling with similar matters.
FAQ Section
Who is Steve Hilton?
Steve Hilton is a California gubernatorial candidate who has criticized Governor Gavin Newsom’s business policies and aims to improve the state’s business climate.
What are Steve Hilton’s key campaign proposals?
Hilton proposes removing the state income tax for residents earning $100,000, building more affordable housing, and improving student performance in public schools.
What criticism has Steve Hilton made towards Governor Newsom?
Hilton criticized Governor Newsom’s social media presence and the state’s business climate, calling them “pathetic” and alleging that Democratic leadership has destroyed the “California dream.”
What challenges does Hilton face in becoming governor?
Hilton faces the challenge of historical statewide Republican losses in California since 2006, making his campaign difficult against the dominant Democratic party.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- SJVSun: Hilton Vows to End the Nightmare of Doing Business in California
- KCRA: Republican Steve Hilton California Governor Candidate Interview
- NY Times: Steve Hilton, Former Fox News Host, Is Running for California Governor
- SF Standard: If Steve Hilton Wants to Be California Governor, He Should Ditch the MAGA Baggage
- Google Search: California Governor Steve Hilton
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
