That makes him the second major Republican to enter the crowded field hoping to replace incumbent Gavin Newsom in 2026

Conservative commentator Steve Hilton will announce that he’s joining the 2026 race for California governor, running as a Republican to replace Democrat Gavin Newsom, who is prevented by law from seek

Steve Hilton, an author, government policy adviser and a former Fox News contributor, officially launched his bid for California governor on Monday. "It's time to make California Golden Again," the Republican contender shared on the social media platform X.