Who is Steve Hilton, the Briton who could become California’s next governor?

In a stunning upset, British-born Conservative strategist Steve Hilton has secured a spot in the November runoff to become California's next governor, defying long odds and California's solidly blue reputation. Hilton, who has spent years working behind the scenes in British Conservative politics, has made a name for himself as a vocal critic of the US establishment and a champion of limited government. His ability to clinch a spot in the runoff under California's unique open primary system, where the top two vote winners advance regardless of party, is a testament to his grassroots appeal and the growing discontent among California voters. Now, Hilton faces a daunting task: defeating Democratic frontrunner Xavier Becerra in a state where Republicans have historically struggled to gain traction. Can Hilton's outsider status and conservative credentials propel him to victory in the Golden State?

Hilton has worn many hats since he arrived in the US 14 years ago, and now faces steep odds of defeating Democratic Xavier Becerra in NovemberAfter years of working in the background of Conservative party politics in Britain, Steve Hilton has passed the first major test as his own front man: clinching a spot in the November run-off to become California’s next governor.The outcome was far from a given under California’s open primary system, which rewards the top two vote winners regardless of party, and the particular challenge of running as a Republican in one of the most solidly blue states in the country. Continue reading...