LOS ANGELES — In a surprising twist at the annual conference of the National Association of Latino Elected Officials, British-born California gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton voiced a playful yet patriotic plea for Americans to support England in their quest to win the World Cup. The suggestion, made only half in jest, comes centuries after historical tensions and in the spirit of international camaraderie.

"Maybe a small consolation would be for them to just let England win the World cup here on American soil 250 years later,” said Hilton, a Republican, whose comment stirred a potpourri of reactions from the audience — a blend of boos, groans, and chuckles. Hilton, who earlier expressed his support for the United States while they were still contenders, shifted his allegiance post their exit from the competition.

The remark, though controversial, highlights a deeper narrative of global sportsmanship and the unique relationship between England and the United States. As countries with intertwined histories, moments like these serve as light-hearted reminders of past rivalries and present alliances.

While some conference attendees viewed Hilton's comments as a humorous nod to historical events, others perceived them as a serious call for a unified support among Americans for the English team. The mixed responses underscore the diverse perspectives within the audience, reflecting broader national sentiments about international sports competitions.

As Hilton campaigns for the gubernatorial seat, his remarks at the conference may resonate differently across various communities, potentially impacting his support base. However, it also positions him as a candidate who embraces a global view, acknowledging his roots and the complexities of international relationships in a lighthearted manner.

Whether his call for support will sway American soccer fans remains uncertain, but Hilton's comments have certainly sparked a conversation about national loyalty, sportsmanship, and the enduring bonds that sports can create across borders. As the World Cup progresses, it will be interesting to see how American support swings and whether England can indeed claim victory on what Hilton hopes will be a supportive foreign field.