Steve Hilton campaigns against harm reduction programs at MacArthur Park

Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton brought his campaign for Governor of California to MacArthur Park in Los Angeles on Tuesday. According to the New York Post, Hilton visited the park and nearby alleys to criticize taxpayer funded non profit groups that distribute clean drug supplies. He argued that harm reduction programs prolong addiction instead of helping individuals recover. [1]

During his visit, Hilton criticized the distribution of clean needles and crack pipes, calling attention to executive pay at non profit organisations operating the programs. The New York Post reported that the surrounding area contained discarded needles, drug equipment, and people sleeping on sidewalks. [1]

Hilton is the Republican candidate for Governor of California in the 2026 gubernatorial election. He previously served as director of strategy for British prime minister David Cameron from 2010 to 2012 before moving to California, and he later hosted a show on Fox News Channel. [7][9]

As FTMQ News reported earlier, Hilton is competing in the 2026 election against Democratic rival Xavier Becerra. Recent polling reported by The Desert Sun showed Becerra holding a wide lead over Hilton in the race. [4][11]