Steve Hilton Surges in California Governor’s Race as Democrats Struggle to Unite

A recent survey commissioned by the California Democratic Party reveals a surprising development in the race for governor: conservative political commentator Steve Hilton and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco are currently leading the pack. This comes as the Democratic field remains deeply divided, raising concerns about a potential conservative victory in the traditionally liberal state.

Poll Results: Hilton and Bianco Ahead

The Evitarus Research poll of 2,000 likely voters indicates that 16% of respondents would support Steve Hilton in the upcoming primary, closely followed by Chad Bianco with 14%. This mirrors findings from a UC Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies poll released last week, which showed Hilton at 17% and Bianco at 16%.

On the Democratic side, the race is significantly more fragmented. Congressman Eric Swalwell, former Representative Katie Porter, and billionaire environmental activist Tom Steyer are locked in a tight contest, each garnering 10% of the surveyed voters. This lack of consolidation within the Democratic party is a key factor contributing to the strong showing of the Republican candidates.

Democratic Concerns and Calls for Unity

Mark DiCamillo, director of the Berkeley IGS Poll, noted that “voters remain largely disengaged and unenthusiastic about the candidates and the election.” This apathy, combined with the crowded Democratic field, has prompted warnings from within the party.

Rusty Hicks, the California Democratic Party chair, recently cautioned that the numerous Democratic candidates could inadvertently pave the way for an “unlikely” but “possible” Republican win. He urged candidates with limited prospects to withdraw from the race, but only one candidate has done so thus far.

A Crowded Democratic Field

Besides Swalwell, Porter, and Steyer, other Democratic contenders include former Health and Human Services Secretary and State Attorney General Xavier Becerra, San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan, State Schools Superintendent Tony Thurmond, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, and former State Controller Betty Yee. The Evitarus poll shows these candidates trailing with significantly lower support: Becerra, Villaraigosa, and Mahan at 3%, Yee at 2%, and Thurmond at 1%.

Undecided Voters and Controversy

A substantial 24% of voters remain undecided, further complicating the picture. The race has also been marred by controversy, particularly regarding the Democratic party’s stance on candidates with low support. Tony Thurmond criticized the party for “essentially telling every candidate of color in the race for governor to drop out,” alleging a rigged political system.

Cancelled Debate Sparks Outrage

Adding to the turmoil, a debate hosted by the University of Southern California, featuring Hilton, Bianco, Swalwell, Porter, Steyer, and Mahan, was cancelled at the last minute due to criticism for excluding candidates of color. Steve Hilton responded sharply, calling the move “yet another example of insane Democrat incompetence” and suggesting federal funding to USC should be suspended. You can find more information about the political landscape in California at California State Government Website.

With the June primary approaching, the outcome of the California governor’s race remains highly uncertain. The ability of the Democratic party to coalesce around a single candidate will be crucial in preventing a potential upset.