In a state where the media seems determined to make every election about one man, Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton is drawing a pretty clear line: this race is about California—not Donald Trump.
As the June 2 primary approaches, Hilton has been making his case directly to voters, emphasizing what he sees as the real issue—the condition of the Golden State after years of Democrat leadership. And let’s just say, he’s not exactly running on a “things are going great” message.
The media, however, keeps trying to steer the conversation back to Trump. During a recent interview, Hilton was confronted with polling data about Trump’s approval ratings in California. Because, of course, when voters are dealing with high taxes and homelessness, the first question is… what do they think about someone who isn’t even on the ballot.
Hilton’s response? Simple and direct.
“This election is going to be about the future of California and the fact that we’re desperate for change in California,” he said—reminding everyone that Trump’s name isn’t anywhere on the ballot.
It’s a point that seems obvious, but apparently needs repeating.
Hilton is currently performing strongly in polling, leading among candidates alongside fellow Republican Chad Bianco in California’s jungle primary system. He also picked up an endorsement from President Trump earlier this month, which, unsurprisingly, has only fueled more attempts to nationalize the race.
But Hilton isn’t taking the bait. Instead, he’s focusing on what he argues are the real issues facing Californians—rising costs, homelessness, and broader concerns about the direction of the state under Democrat control.
And there’s plenty of contrast in the race. The Democrat field has already seen its share of turbulence, including the recent exit of former Rep. Eric Swalwell following multiple allegations of sexual misconduct that triggered a Justice Department investigation. Not exactly the kind of storyline you want heading into a major election.
Hilton, for his part, appears to be setting the stage for upcoming debates by sharpening that contrast—arguing that California’s challenges aren’t tied to Republicans or Trump, but to decisions made at the state level over many years.
At the end of the day, his message is straightforward: voters should focus on results, not distractions.
And if that message sticks, this race might end up being less about national narratives—and more about whether Californians are ready for a different direction.