Overview
- Trump posted the endorsement late Sunday on Truth Social, calling Hilton a “fine man,” promising federal help, and blasting Gov. Gavin Newsom’s record.
- Election analysts report the move is likely to steer Republican voters toward Hilton and undercut rival Chad Bianco, which reduces the chance of a Republican‑only November ballot.
- California’s June 2 top‑two primary sends the two highest vote‑getters to November regardless of party, so a single GOP frontrunner makes it easier for at least one Democrat to advance.
- Recent polling from UC Berkeley IGS and others has shown Hilton and Bianco near the top with small leads, large numbers of undecided voters, and eight prominent Democrats splitting support.
- Hilton is a former Fox News host and ex‑strategist to UK Prime Minister David Cameron, and several outlets note Trump’s support could help in the primary yet hurt in a general election in a strongly Democratic state.