That makes him the second major Republican to enter the crowded field hoping to replace incumbent Gavin Newsom in 2026

California gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton warned former Vice President Kamala Harris, who is rumored to be considering a run for the Golden State’s governor’s mansion, to think twice before entering the race while detailing that his goal is to end the “one-party rule” that the Democratic Party has in the state.

Conservative commentator Steve Hilton will announce that he’s joining the 2026 race for California governor, running as a Republican to replace Democrat Gavin Newsom, who is prevented by law from seeking a third term.