Full Breakdown
Tito Ortiz Critiques California Leadership, Endorses Sheriff Bianco for Governor
2/12/2026, 11:48:49 AM
Ortiz's Departure from California
UFC champion Tito Ortiz, a lifelong resident of California, has publicly criticized Governor Gavin Newsom, attributing his decision to leave the state to rising crime and safety concerns. Ortiz, who served as a council member and mayor pro tempore in Huntington Beach, expressed that he never intended to relocate but felt compelled to move his family to Florida for their protection. He stated, “I never wanted to leave California. But I left because of the crime, the fraud and the growing threat to the safety of my children.” Ortiz's sentiments reflect a broader concern among parents regarding the safety of their children in California.
Criticism of Governor Newsom
Ortiz has specifically blamed Newsom for the deteriorating conditions in California, claiming that the governor's policies have led to “exploding crime, rampant fraud, lawless streets, unaffordable housing, crushed small businesses, and families who no longer feel safe in their own communities.” He argues that Newsom's failures began in San Francisco and have since affected the entire state. In response, Newsom's office issued a dismissive statement, saying, “We’re not sure who Tito Ortiz is, but we wish him well. Bye!”
Endorsement of Sheriff Chad Bianco
In light of his criticisms, Ortiz has endorsed Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco for the 2026 gubernatorial election. He praised Bianco for his refusal to enforce certain COVID-19 lockdown measures imposed by Newsom, stating, “Sheriff Bianco is not a career politician. He is a proven leader with courage and integrity.” Ortiz emphasized that Bianco’s actions during the pandemic demonstrated his commitment to standing with the people rather than the political elite.
Support from Other Figures
Ortiz's endorsement aligns with that of fellow former UFC fighter Dan Henderson, who also commended Bianco's handling of the pandemic. Henderson remarked, “It was kind of a blessing that he didn’t shut everything down as long as we were being responsible with everything.” Both Ortiz and Henderson view Bianco as a candidate who prioritizes common sense and the welfare of families over political agendas.
Bianco's Position in the Gubernatorial Race
Chad Bianco is currently positioned as a frontrunner in the upcoming gubernatorial election, according to several polls, including those conducted by EMC Research and Public Policy Polling. His main competitor appears to be fellow Republican Steve Hilton, who has also been polling well. The endorsements from Ortiz and Henderson may bolster Bianco's campaign as he seeks to address the concerns raised by constituents regarding safety and governance in California.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I never wanted to leave California. But I left because of the crime, the fraud and the growing threat to the safety of my children. Like millions of other parents, I made the difficult decision to move my family to Florida — not for opportunity, but for protection. No parent should ever be forced to flee their home state to keep their children safe,” — Tito Ortiz, UFC Champion
- “Gavin Newsom’s failures didn’t start in Sacramento. He helped devastate San Francisco, then exported those same disastrous policies statewide. The result is undeniable: exploding crime, rampant fraud, lawless streets, unaffordable housing, crushed small businesses and families who no longer feel safe in their own communities,” — Tito Ortiz, UFC Champion
- “Anyone can talk. Sheriff Bianco acted. When it mattered most, he stood with the people, not the political elite. He has earned my vote, my endorsement and my trust. California deserves leadership that will fight back, restore law and order and put families first again.” — Tito Ortiz, UFC Champion
- “A lot of business owners would have went out of business, and maybe even worse, as far as losing a lot of the things that they had, had he shut all the business down like the governor wanted. … It was more common sense. He didn’t panic and think the world was going to end.” — Dan Henderson, Former UFC Fighter
Conclusion
Tito Ortiz's departure from California and his subsequent endorsement of Sheriff Chad Bianco highlight significant concerns regarding public safety and governance in the state. As the 2026 gubernatorial election approaches, these developments may influence voter sentiment and the political landscape in California.
