Earlier this year Jack Hibbs, a far-right anti-LGBTQ pastor, conspiracy theorist, and Christian nationalist, delivered a Sunday sermon in which he blamed Democratic politicians in California for the wildfires that had recently devastated the Los Angeles region, declaring that the Founding Fathers would have had Los Angeles mayor Karen Bass arrested and executed for dereliction of duty.
During that sermon, Hibbs proclaimed that it was time "to replace the leadership in California" and specifically called on former Fox New commentator Steve Hilton to run for governor.
"I have asked someone to run for governor," Hibbs said. "I'm pleading with him to run for governor. ... Steve Hilton, would you run for governor? Because I'm behind you, we will will support you."
Since then, Hibbs has worked to mobilize conservative Christian pastors and activists like Eric Metaxas and Kirk Cameron on Hilton's behalf, getting them to promote and attend a rally today to "pray for Steve Hilton and engage in the spiritual warfare for the state of California."
On Monday, Hilton announced that he is indeed running for governor:
Former Fox News host Steve Hilton announced on Monday he will run for California governor, seeking to become the state’s first Republican chief executive since Arnold Schwarzenegger, his campaign confirmed to POLITICO on Monday.
Hilton, who also served as an adviser to British Prime Minister David Cameron, had long been considering a run and recently released a book criticizing what he sees as the failings of California’s Democratic leadership and offering policy prescriptions. He is the second major GOP candidate to enter the 2026 field, following Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco.
Hibbs posted a video on social media Monday night celebrating the news, reporting that Hilton will participate in the rally that Hibbs had organized. In addition, Hibbs said that Charlie Kirk would be calling into the rally, as will President Donald Trump, if his schedule allows.
Exciting news! @SteveHiltonShow has just announced his candidacy for governor of California and will be making it official tomorrow at the Huntington Beach Pier at 10 AM. Join us for this historic announcement and show your support for a new direction in California. pic.twitter.com/fVOHKBsrse
— Jack Hibbs (@RealJackHibbs) April 21, 2025
