His standing in the race was boosted after Democratic Rep Eric Swalwell dropped out in April amid allegations of sexual assault and misconduct, which he has repeatedly denied. The withdrawal of Swalwell, who was a significant figure among the Democratic candidates, altered the dynamics of the primary. It allowed Hilton to consolidate support and gain momentum in the final weeks of the primary contest.

The contest has become the most expensive California gubernatorial race on record, with immense ad spending by Steyer and Silicon Valley support for another Democratic candidate, San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan. The scale of financial investment reflects the high stakes involved. Both camps have deployed massive resources to shape public opinion, with television ads, digital campaigns, and ground game operations reaching voters across the state.

Hilton has never held elected office before, but has said that should he win, he will not mirror other California politicians. "When people say, 'How are you going to win in California as a Republican?' My question is, how will a Democrat win based on the record that they are putting before the people?" he said earlier this month. This rhetorical strategy highlights his focus on challenging the Democratic incumbent's record rather than simply promoting his own. It is a bold approach for a Republican in a deeply blue state, signaling a shift in campaign tactics.

The former Tory advisor rose to fame while serving as a top aide to Cameron from 2010-12, but later grew critical of the conservative prime minister's immigration policy; the pair ultimately disagreed on how the UK should face Brexit. His tenure in British politics was marked by his close relationship with Cameron, often characterized by informal and unconventional behavior. He once greeted former US President Barack Obama in his socks, he was known to walk the halls of Downing Street in shorts and he referred to the former prime minister as "Dave".

In 2012, he moved to the US from the UK and in 2017, he began a six-year stint hosting a television show on the conservative news network, Fox News. This transition from British politics to American media and then to electoral politics represents a unique career trajectory. His familiarity with both British and American political cultures, as well as his media savvy, are central to his campaign narrative.

While his past associations with Cameron and his media presence provide him with name recognition, they also invite scrutiny. Critics may focus on his lack of elected experience and his controversial statements. However, proponents argue that his outsider status is precisely what appeals to voters frustrated with the status quo. The general election will test whether his message of change can resonate with California's diverse electorate.

California Gubernatorial Election Impact Analysis

The advancement of Steve Hilton in the California gubernatorial election signals a potential realignment of state power. If successful, his victory would disrupt the Democratic stronghold, forcing the party to reevaluate its strategies in key Western states. The intense spending and national interest suggest this race will serve as a bellwether for the 2028 presidential cycle, highlighting the growing influence of media figures in electoral politics and the challenges Republicans face in winning over moderate suburban voters.