Trump-Backed Candidate Joins Call for Unlimited Film and TV Incentive
Steve Hilton, the endorsed candidate for California governor by former president Donald Trump, has put forward a bold proposal to revive the struggling film and TV production industry in California. Joined by Gloria Romero, who is running for lieutenant governor, Hilton made the announcement outside the iconic Cinerama Dome, a symbol of Hollywood’s decline.
Hilton emphasized the urgent need for action, stating that the industry has suffered from neglect under Democratic Party rule in California for the past 16 years. He highlighted the fierce competition from other states and countries that offer attractive incentives for film and TV production, leading to a loss of jobs and opportunities in California.
The proposal calls for an unlimited state subsidy for film and TV production, a move supported by other prominent figures such as San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan and former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. The current $750 million cap on state subsidies would be eliminated, although Hilton did not provide a specific cost estimate. He argued that the increased incentive would generate economic benefits and ultimately lead to a reduction in taxes, framing it as a form of tax cut.
In response to Hilton’s proposal, Democratic contender Tom Steyer also suggested increasing the subsidy cap, but stopped short of advocating for its complete elimination. Steyer’s camp emphasized his commitment to protecting working people and opposing corporate monopolies, particularly in light of the proposed merger between Paramount and Warner Bros.
Hilton, leveraging his ties to the White House, proposed a federal incentive for film production that would complement state subsidies. He aims for a combined California and federal rebate totaling 60%, and has engaged with industry stakeholders, labor unions, and even Trump’s special ambassador to Hollywood, Jon Voight.
The California incentive, currently set at 35%-40% of below-the-line costs, would be expanded to cover above-the-line salaries for key industry professionals. Hilton pointed to Georgia as a model, where an uncapped tax credit has been successful in attracting productions. California, with its larger industry workforce, aims to regain its status as a premier production hub.
Hilton’s campaign is gaining momentum as the leading Republican candidate in the polls, positioning him as a strong contender for the November runoff. With his ambitious plan to revitalize the film and TV production industry in California, Hilton is positioning himself as a champion of economic growth and job creation in the state.
