Former President Donald Trump launched a public attack against Fox News on Wednesday, criticizing the network for airing a segment on Democratic California gubernatorial candidate Tom Steyer. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump questioned the editorial decision to feature Steyer over Republican candidates in the race.
"Why is FoxNews showing SLEAZEBAG Tom Steyer, doing a big piece on him right now, and probably putting him 'into play,' instead of talking about Republican Candidates, and really good ones like Steve Hilton, and Republicans?" Trump wrote. The former president's criticism came despite the network having recently aired an interview with Hilton, a Republican candidate and former Fox News host whom Trump endorsed earlier this month.
Trump escalated his critique by tying the media coverage to his frequent claims about election integrity. "How can a Republican expect to win that State, with their Mail In Voting and Rigged Elections, when you have FoxNews promoting the Democrats?" he continued. "Nobody cares about Tom Steyer, he is a LOSER, but Fox is making it possible for a guy like this to win. VOTE FOR STEVE HILTON, AND TURN CALIFORNIA AROUND!"
Steyer responded swiftly on the social media platform X, sharing a screenshot of Trump's post with the caption: "California: The man who brought you $8 gasoline would like you to vote for Steve Hilton." This exchange marks the latest chapter in a long-running feud between the two billionaires. Trump previously targeted Steyer during the 2020 Democratic presidential primary, mocking him after he dropped out of the race. "Go away Tom and save whatever little money you have left!" Trump wrote at the time.
The political context of this spat is significant. Trump endorsed Hilton earlier this month, calling him "a truly fine man, one who has watched as this once great State has gone to Hell." However, Hilton and other Republican gubernatorial hopefuls failed to secure the California Republican Party's official endorsement, as no candidate reached the required 60 percent threshold.
Current polling shows a competitive race. A recent SurveyUSA poll, conducted before sexual misconduct allegations led Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell to exit the race, placed Steyer at the front of the crowded field with 21 percent support among likely voters. Hilton followed closely with 18 percent. Rep. Katie Porter (D-Calif.) and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco (R) were effectively tied for third place at 8 percent each.
Other Democratic candidates, including former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, former Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, and former State Controller Betty Yee, each polled below 6 percent. The segment on Fox News that triggered Trump's ire reportedly focused on Steyer's positions regarding immigration enforcement and the future of ICE.
This incident reflects Trump's ongoing efforts to influence media narratives and Republican primary outcomes, even as he faces his own legal and political challenges. His criticism of Fox News, a network traditionally aligned with conservative viewers, underscores his willingness to challenge established institutions within the Republican media ecosystem. The episode also highlights the complex dynamics of California's top-two primary system, where candidates from all parties compete on the same ballot.
