Politics

CALIFORNIA SHOCK: Republican Steve Hilton LEADS Governor's Race as Golden State Awakens

Gary FranchiFebruary 18, 2026232 views
CALIFORNIA SHOCK: Republican Steve Hilton LEADS Governor's Race as Golden State Awakens
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The impossible is becoming possible in California. Republican Steve Hilton, the former Fox News host and populist conservative, is leading the pack in the Golden State's gubernatorial race, according to new polling data that has sent shockwaves through the Democratic establishment.

In a field of 12 announced candidates, Hilton has emerged as the frontrunner, outpacing both Democrats and fellow Republicans in what many considered an unwinnable race for conservatives. This stunning development comes as Californians face the consequences of decades of failed liberal policies—skyrocketing crime, homelessness, and an exodus of businesses fleeing the state's oppressive regulations.

Hilton, known for his America First stance and fierce criticism of the political establishment, appears to be tapping into the same populist energy that swept President Trump back into the White House. His message of common-sense governance and economic freedom is resonating with California voters who have watched their state spiral into dysfunction under Democratic rule.

The Trump Effect in Action

This remarkable surge comes as President Trump's second-term agenda gains momentum nationwide. The success of Trump's policies—from border security to economic deregulation—is creating a ripple effect that's reaching even the most liberal strongholds.

"Californians are waking up to the reality that their progressive utopia has become a nightmare," said one political analyst. "Hilton represents hope for real change after years of failed leadership."

The implications are staggering. If Hilton can maintain his lead and win the governor's mansion, it would represent the most significant political realignment in modern California history. Imagine—a Republican governor working hand-in-hand with President Trump to restore law and order, fix the homelessness crisis, and bring businesses back to the Golden State.

Democrats are undoubtedly scrambling behind closed doors, trying to figure out how their iron grip on California politics is suddenly slipping away. The answer is simple: Americans are tired of woke policies that destroy communities and bankrupt families.

Will Steve Hilton pull off the political upset of the century and deliver California back to common-sense governance? Patriots across the nation are watching closely.

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Gary Franchi

Award-winning journalist covering breaking news, politics & culture for Next News Network.

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O
OrangeCountyDadVerifiedjust now
This can't be right - is this polling data from likely voters or registered voters? I want to believe but California has burned us before with early polling that didn't hold up.
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DataDrivenConservativeVerifiedjust now
Good question - the article mentions it's from likely voters with a +/- 3.2% margin of error. Still early but encouraging trend!
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TechWorkerCAVerifiedjust now
I've been following Hilton since his Fox News days - the man gets it. His background in both media and policy gives him a unique perspective on how to actually communicate conservative solutions to California voters who've been fed liberal talking points for years.
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PatriotMom2024Verifiedjust now
Finally! Californians are waking up to the disaster that decades of Democrat leadership has brought us. Steve Hilton understands what working families need - lower taxes, safer streets, and schools that actually educate our kids instead of indoctrinating them.
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GoldenStateRealistVerifiedjust now
Exactly! My property taxes have tripled in the last 10 years while the homeless camps grew right outside my neighborhood. Time for real change.