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Steve Hilton is doing better than expected.

That’s the key takeaway from the statewide poll conducted by The California Post among 800 likely voters from Oct. 17 to 20.

The Republican candidate has run an energetic campaign, focused on ideas. And he did well in the debate earlier this month.

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Republican Candidate for California Governor Steve Hilton pumps gas and meets voters at Fuel Depot in Goleta, Calif., Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2026, during a $3.00 gas promotion. London Entertainment for CA Post

He’s begun closing the gap — somewhat.

Hilton still trails Democrat Xavier Becerra by double digits. But he’s now within 16 points, trailing the Democrat 55.0% to 39.3%. That’s closer than the old RealClearPolitics average of 23.2%.

Hilton is also more well-liked than the Republican Party.…