Story perspectives

Ex-Fox Host Hilton Wins GOP Nod, Promises California Tax Cut

6/10/2026

Summary

Story summary

Steve Hilton, a former UK political adviser and ex-Fox News host, became the Republican nominee for California governor after a primary upset.
Hilton will face Democrat Xavier Becerra in the November 2026 California gubernatorial general election.
Hilton pledged to eliminate state income tax on the first $100,000 of earnings and to freeze public college tuition.
President Donald Trump endorsed Hilton in April, bolstering his support among Republican primary voters.
Hilton criticized Becerra’s record, linking it to California’s highest poverty, unemployment, and cost-of-living rankings.

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Story summary

Steve Hilton, a former UK political adviser and ex-Fox News host, became the Republican nominee for California governor after a primary upset.
Hilton will face Democrat Xavier Becerra in the November 2026 California gubernatorial general election.
Hilton pledged to eliminate state income tax on the first $100,000 of earnings and to freeze public college tuition.
President Donald Trump endorsed Hilton in April, bolstering his support among Republican primary voters.
Hilton criticized Becerra’s record, linking it to California’s highest poverty, unemployment, and cost-of-living rankings.