Voters needed to hear this.
Steve Hilton Says Years of Democrat Control Have Left Californians Struggling
California Republican Steve Hilton is making a blunt argument about the state’s future: after years of Democrat control, many Californians are finding it harder than ever to afford the American Dream.
Speaking on Fox & Friends Weekend, Hilton pointed to rising housing costs, high taxes, growing homelessness, and business departures as evidence that California’s leadership has failed ordinary families.
For millions of residents, the issue is simple. Everyday necessities—from groceries and gas to electricity and housing—cost significantly more than they did just a few years ago.
According to Hilton, Californians are paying the price for policies that have dominated state government for more than a decade.
“They’ve Had Complete Control”
Hilton argued that Democrats can no longer blame political opponents for California’s challenges because they have controlled nearly every major lever of government.
“They’ve had years to prove their policies work,” Hilton said.
Democrats currently hold the governor’s office, dominate the state legislature, control virtually every statewide elected position, and maintain a strong majority on California’s highest court.
Despite that political advantage, Hilton says many of the problems voters care about most remain unresolved.
High Taxes, High Housing Costs, and an Ongoing Exodus
California continues to face some of the highest housing costs in America. Families looking to buy a home often find themselves priced out of the market, while renters face increasing monthly expenses.
At the same time, businesses have relocated operations to states with lower taxes and fewer regulations, taking jobs and investment with them.
Many residents have chosen to leave as well, seeking lower living costs and a better quality of life in states such as Texas, Florida, Tennessee, and Idaho.
For critics of California’s leadership, these trends raise serious questions about the direction of the state.
Governor’s Race Could Become a Referendum on California’s Future
As votes continue to be counted in California’s governor’s race, Hilton appears locked in a close battle for a spot in November’s runoff election.
Early results suggest he could advance to face Democrat Xavier Becerra in what would become one of the most closely watched governor’s races in the country.
Billionaire Democrat Tom Steyer currently trails the leading candidates.
Hilton says the race is ultimately about more than politics.
He believes voters are being asked whether California should continue down its current path or pursue a dramatically different approach focused on affordability, public safety, economic growth, and government accountability.
Californians “Desperate for Change”
Despite California’s long-standing reputation as a Democratic stronghold, Hilton says voter frustration is creating an opportunity for Republicans.
“People are desperate for change,” he said.
The Republican candidate argues that many voters feel ignored by political leaders while dealing with rising costs and declining confidence in state institutions.
Whether that frustration translates into electoral success remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: concerns about affordability, taxes, crime, homelessness, and the cost of living are likely to dominate the conversation between now and Election Day.
The Bottom Line
For years, California has been held up as a model by progressives across the country. Hilton argues the results tell a different story.
With families struggling to make ends meet, businesses leaving, and voters increasingly frustrated with the state’s direction, California’s governor’s race may become a major test of whether voters want more of the same—or a new path forward.