Steve Hilton, a Republican candidate for California Governor, is gaining traction with the support of former President Donald Trump. He has a preferred pick for the lieutenant governor role: Gloria Romero, a well-known figure in California politics.
Key Facts about Gloria Romero
- Political History: Gloria Romero served in the California Legislature from 1998 to 2010.
- Party Affiliation: Romero switched from Democrat to Republican in 2024.
- Education: She holds an associate degree from Barstow Community College, a bachelor’s from California State University, Long Beach, and a PhD from the University of California, Riverside.
- Major Contributions: She was the first woman to serve as the majority leader of the California State Senate, influencing education policy during her tenure.
- Current Status: Romero is the most prominent Republican candidate in the lieutenant governor race.
Background on Steve Hilton
Steve Hilton, 56, is a non-traditional political candidate. Born in Britain to Hungarian immigrants, he grew up in Brighton before moving to the U.S. Hilton was formerly an adviser to British Prime Minister David Cameron. He relocated to California in 2012 and became a U.S. citizen in 2021.
Hilton has gained popularity as a Fox News host, and his 2024 tax records revealed an annual income of $250,000, while his wife’s earnings reached $6.7 million. He has a unique approach to politics, previously known for his unconventional style and ideas.
Support from Prominent Figures
In the lead-up to the primary, Trump urged California voters to support Hilton through his platform, Truth Social. He emphasized that Hilton would improve the federal government’s relationship with California, which has been strained under current Governor Gavin Newsom.
- Trump’s Endorsement: The former president praised Hilton as a candidate who would “make California great again.”
- JD Vance’s Support: The Vice President expressed his encouragement for Hilton, highlighting the need for better political leadership in California.
The Role of Lieutenant Governor
The lieutenant governor’s position in California is largely ceremonial. However, it can serve as a stepping stone to the governor’s office. The current lieutenant governor, Eleni Kounalakis, is unable to run again due to term limits, opening the field for new candidates.
As Hilton campaigns for the state’s top position, Gloria Romero stands as a prominent ally in the race for lieutenant governor. Her extensive political background and support for Hilton position her as a potential key player in California’s political landscape.
