Steve Hilton, Republican candidate for California governor, discusses his strategy to attract voters who oppose President Trump, despite receiving the president’s endorsement. He highlights policy differences on environmental regulations and immigration reform, stressing that his campaign focuses on local concerns such as homelessness and rising living costs. By emphasizing practical governance over national partisan divides, Hilton aims to appeal to moderates and independents in a state where Trump remains deeply unpopular.
The interview explores the challenges of being a Trump-backed candidate in a predominantly Democratic state. Hilton draws on his experience as a former adviser to British Prime Minister David Cameron to position himself as a pragmatic leader. He addresses criticism from both political extremes, underscoring the need to balance party loyalty with broad electoral appeal. The conversation sheds light on the evolving dynamics within the Republican Party and the hurdles faced by GOP candidates seeking statewide office in California.