President Donald Trump publicly backed California Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton on Monday, saying the former Fox News host “has my COMPLETE & TOTAL ENDORSEMENT.”    “Steve can turn it around, before it is too late, and, as President, I will help him to do so!” Trump said. “With Federal help, and a Great Governor, like Steve Hilton, California can be better than ever before!” Trump’s endorsement comes as a crowded Democratic field, including Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA), former Rep. Katie Porter (D-CA), and billionaire environmental activist Tom Steyer, has raised Republican hopes that California’s “jungle primary” system will result in a split vote, potentially allowing Hilton and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, both GOP candidates, to advance to the general election. Under the state’s primary system, all candidates appear on the same ballot, and the top two vote-getters advance to the general election in November regardless of party.  A Democratic “lockout” of the general election appears less likely if Republican voters consolidate behind Hilton following Trump’s endorsement. “I have known and respected Steve Hilton … for many years,” Trump posted on Truth Social. “He is a truly fine man, one who has watched as this once great State has gone to Hell.” “Gavin Newscum and the Democrats have done an absolutely horrendous job,” he added. “People are fleeing, crime is increasing, and Taxes are the highest of any State in the Country, maybe the World.” Recent polling has generally placed Hilton and Bianco among the top contenders, though some newer surveys suggest a tighter race with several Democrats rising. One Democrat poll last month showed Hilton and Bianco leading the pack at 16% and 14%, respectively, while Swalwell, Porter, and Steyer all had around 10%. Other Democrat candidates include former President Joe Biden’s Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, and San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan. “This initial survey shows two Republicans in the lead with multiple Democrats trailing behind. These results confirm the possibility – albeit a low one – of Democrats being ‘locked out’ of the General Election,” said California Democratic Party Chair Rusty Hicks. “Most importantly, it’s yet another clear reminder of an undeniable fact – all candidates must honestly assess their viable path to win. I continue to call for them to do so.” California’s primary election is set for June 2, 2026.