Why Republican Steve Hilton increasing his lead in the California polls could be beneficial for Democrats

Published March 11, 2026 5:24pm ET



Republican Steve Hilton is gaining momentum in California’s crowded and chaotic governor’s race, but the development might actually end up a good thing for Democrats.

Hilton, a former Fox News host, is leading the 10-candidate deep primary race with 19% of likely voters, according to the latest UC Berkeley Citrin Center for Public Opinion Research-POLITICO poll. Behind him is a pile-up of tied candidates, including Democratic billionaire Tom Steyer at 13%, followed by Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA), and former Democratic Rep. Katie Porter. Of the 1,004 likely voters polled, 17% said they were undecided. 

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