Hilton Leads in California Governor Race

0:00It's April 17th. From coast to coast, this is U.S. News Today, powered by AI. I'm Cory with the story. Republican Steve Hilton holds a slim lead in the California Governor's race, topping the real clear politics average at 17.3 percent, too. Democrat Tom Steyer is 14.8 percent. That's a 2.5-point edge in a packed primary field. Eric Swalwell's recent exit from the race has boosted Steyer, but Democrats stay split, with candidates like Katie Porter and Xavier Basera grabbing. Chunks of the vote. Meanwhile, Republican Chad Bianco sits at 13 percent, keeping the GOP side competitive. Voters over 50, back Hilton's strong at 24 percent, and he dominates Republicans at 48 percent. Independence show no clear favorite, adding to the chaos in this deep blue state. A fresh Emerson college poll from April 14 to 15 backs, Hilton at 17 percent, with Steyer and Bianco tied at 14.

1:00An earlier survey even had Steyer ahead briefly, at 21 percent amid Swalwell drama, but the trend favors Hilton's steady climb. Economy and housing costs? Top voter worries, playing to Hilton's pitch on taxes and uncertainty. With the primary months away, this volatile race keeps Republicans consolidated while Democrats gather. Hilton's the one to watch right now.