Steve Hilton Channels Schwarzenegger in California Governor Bid
"I know that some of you may be watching and saying, who is this guy with a funny accent who thinks he can be governor of California?"
California Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton, a British immigrant, is drawing parallels between his candidacy and that of former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, another immigrant who famously overcame an accent to lead the state.
Hilton is currently running in California’s jungle primary system. He faces a competitive field that includes Democrat Xavier Becerra and fellow Democrat Tom Steyer.
"Change is coming to California"
At a recent victory party, Hilton addressed supporters with confidence. He expressed deep pride in becoming a U.S. citizen, a milestone that frames his campaign message.
He also shared a personal anecdote, recalling a congratulatory message he received from Schwarzenegger. Adding a touch of symbolism, Hilton showed off a jacket with both the U.S. and California flags sewn into the inseam, joking about a "jacket pledge" and directly referencing Schwarzenegger’s tenure.
"Change is coming to California," Hilton declared, positioning himself as an outsider ready to shake up the state's political status quo.