Trump Critiques Fox News for Featuring Tom Steyer in California Gubernatorial Race

On Wednesday, former President Donald Trump publicly criticized Fox News for its coverage of California gubernatorial candidate Tom Steyer, a Democrat, questioning why the network chose to highlight Steyer instead of focusing on Republican candidates like Steve Hilton, whom Trump endorsed earlier this month. Trump's remarks came in response to a segment featuring Steyer discussing his views on immigration and the deportation agenda, which he deemed inappropriate given the context of the Republican race.

The Hill

In a post on Truth Social, Trump expressed his discontent, stating, “Why is FoxNews showing SLEAZEBAG Tom Steyer... instead of talking about Republican Candidates, and really good ones like Steve Hilton?” He further criticized the network for potentially aiding Democratic candidates in California, asserting that such coverage undermines Republican chances in the state. Trump urged voters to support Hilton, claiming, “Nobody cares about Tom Steyer, he is a LOSER,” and emphasized the need to “turn California around.”

The Hill

Tom Steyer currently leads the Democratic primary for California governor, particularly after former Representative Eric Swalwell withdrew from the race amid sexual misconduct allegations. A recent SurveyUSA poll indicated Steyer's support at 21 percent among likely voters, followed closely by Hilton at 18 percent. Other candidates, including Katie Porter and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, are tied at 8 percent, while several other Democratic figures are polling below 6 percent.

The Hill

Trump's endorsement of Hilton reflects his ongoing influence within the Republican Party, particularly in California, where the California Republican Party did not endorse any candidate due to the lack of a candidate meeting the required 60 percent support threshold. Trump's previous comments about Steyer date back to the 2020 Democratic presidential primary, where he criticized Steyer's spending and campaign effectiveness.

The Hill

Critics of Trump's remarks may argue that his focus on Steyer detracts from substantive discussions about the issues facing California. Steyer himself responded to Trump's comments by highlighting the former president's past failures, stating, “California: The man who brought you $8 gasoline would like you to vote for Steve Hilton.” This response underscores the contentious nature of the race and the differing perspectives on leadership and governance in California.

The Hill

While Trump’s statements reflect his perspective on media coverage and candidate viability, the dynamics of the California gubernatorial race remain fluid, with various candidates vying for attention and support. The implications of Trump's criticism on Fox News and its audience's perception of the candidates are yet to be fully understood, especially as the election approaches.

The Hill

• “Why is FoxNews showing SLEAZEBAG Tom Steyer, doing a big piece on him right now, and probably putting him ‘into play,’ instead of talking about Republican Candidates, and really good ones like Steve Hilton, and Republicans?” — Donald Trump, Former President

The Hill

• “California: The man who brought you $8 gasoline would like you to vote for Steve Hilton.” — Tom Steyer, California Gubernatorial Candidate

The Hill