How a Trump-Endorsed Republican Could Become California’s Next Governor
5/4/202622 min
In the governor’s race in California, the leading Republican candidate appears to be Steve Hilton, a British-born political consultant and former Fox News contributor. Hilton has been endorsed by Donald Trump, which may not help him in the heavily Democratic state. His lead may owe something to California’s unusual primary system, but it’s not the first time a Republican has had a strong showing in the state: former Republican governors include Ronald Reagan and Arnold Schwarzenegger. Hilton is running on a platform emphasizing affordability, cutting waste in the government, and increasing oil and natural-gas production. He talks with David Remnick about how a Republican might win this election, and how he would govern with a minority of Californians supporting him.
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First 90 secondsEvan Osnos· Host0:00
[upbeat music] If you're a fan of the Political Scene podcast from the New Yorker, I hope you'll join us for a live taping of the show at 92NY in Manhattan.
Susan Glasser· Host0:09
We're gonna be talking about Donald Trump's falling approval numbers, the prospects of a comeback for the Democratic Party in the midterms.
David Remnick· Host0:18
And let's just say the potential threats to the integrity of the election that are coming from the president.
Evan Osnos· Host0:24
I hope you'll join me, Evan Osnos, and my colleagues, Susan Glasser and Jane Mayer, on June 4th at 7:00 PM. Ticket information is at 92ny.org.
David Remnick· Host0:35
[upbeat music] You're listening to The Political Scene. I'm David Remnick. Early each week, we bring you a conversation from our episode of The New Yorker Radio Hour.
Susan Glasser· Host0:52
[upbeat music] The New Yorker Radio Hour is a co-production of WNYC and The New Yorker.
David Remnick· Host1:00
Welcome to the New Yorker Radio Hour. I'm David Remnick. Now, if you've been following news about the midterm elections coming this November, you may have heard a very confusing story coming out of California. The polls are shifting all the time, and Eric Swalwell, the leading Democrat, recently dropped out following accusations of rape and sexual assault, charges that he denies. But it seems that the leading candidate in the California