On Tax Day, California gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton posted a video on X declaring that residents are “sick of it” when it comes to the state’s high taxes, poor services, and bureaucratic red tape.
In the clip, Hilton, running to unseat the current leadership, promised that as governor, he would “rip it up” and overhaul the system. The post has drawn strong reactions online, with supporters praising his message and critics questioning his plans.
Steve Hilton, a candidate for California governor, posted the video on X (formerly Twitter) on Tax Day, April 15, 2026.
In the video, Hilton is outside, standing in front of a brick wall, with his tax documents in hand. He looks straight at the camera and begins venting about California’s too-high taxes, poor results, alleged fraud, and bureaucratic hassles. He said if elected governor, he plans to simplify the system by making the first $100,000 of income tax-free and getting rid of all the excessive paperwork.
The post text echoes the video, stating: “Tax Day and we are sick of it! It’s not just that we pay the highest taxes for the worst results. It’s not just the billions stolen by the Democrats through fraud. It’s the infuriating bureaucracy and hassle! When I’m governor, we will rip it up.”
Online Reactions to Steve Hilton’s Tax Day Message
Many users expressed support and hope for change. One commenter wrote, “Thank you for all you’re doing for our beautiful California!” while another said, “I am very much looking forward to the reforms you will bring to California once you become governor.”
Others provided policy recommendations, like “Announce zero state income tax for all income. Make California competitive with Florida.”
Critical comments were also present, with a user stating “Same CHANGE nonsense that all politicians spew” and doubting the coherence of Hilton’s proposal, and another stating “great shite talk” with no substance.
What makes this moment notable is both the Tax Day timing (and tapping into taxpayer angst in a high tax state) and the fact that it spotlights Hilton’s campaign pledge as he’s currently on the campaign trail running for Governor.
Hilton’s Tax Day message has now become part of the broader conversation about California’s tax burden and government reform as he campaigns for governor. The clip continues to generate discussion among voters weighing the state’s fiscal challenges ahead of the next election.
