Steve Hilton told reporters on Wednesday that he's "very encouraged" by the current vote count in the California gubernatorial race but that "nothing is final yet."
"Obviously, we're very encouraged by these results," Hilton said. "Nothing is final yet, but it does look as if change is coming to California, and that is good news for everyone, every small business, every working family, everyone who wants to see our state set back on track."
As of 1:20 p.m. PT, with 55% of the expected vote, Hilton is at 28%, followed by Xavier Becerra at 25%, and then Tom Steyer at 20%.
Hilton said he is "confident" that he will be in the top two.
Hilton said he hasn't spoken to President Trump yet, but that he "received a message of congratulations."
Trump posted on Truth Social on Wednesday, "Congratulations to Steve Hilton on coming in first, last night, in the California Vote for Governor. If Californians are smart, which I know they are, they will put Steve into the Governor's Mansion, and watch their State get better at a rate that has probably never been seen before. I know Steve - He is a hard driving WINNER, and he will turn California around, quickly - and the Federal Government will be there, with him, to help! "
ABC News contributed to this report.
