Former Biden Officials Navigate 2026 Gubernatorial Races

Three former Biden White House officials are running for governor in 2026. They highlight their experience but avoid focusing too closely on former President Biden. Deb Haaland in New Mexico, Xavier Becerra in California, and Keisha Lance Bottoms in Georgia mention their backgrounds but seldom link themselves directly to Biden in campaigns.

This strategy contrasts with Republican candidates who openly embrace Donald Trump. Biden’s challenging headlines post-office complicate Democrats’ campaigns. This includes the release of the Democratic National Committee’s ‘autopsy’ of the 2024 election, where Jill Biden expressed concerns over President Biden’s debate performance, contributing to his decision not to seek re-election. Biden left with low approval ratings.

Becerra’s Campaign in California

Xavier Becerra, running in a competitive California primary, emphasizes his credentials as Biden’s health secretary, along with his time as both the state’s attorney general and a 12-term Congress member. Becerra cites Biden administration achievements like expanding Medicare and reducing drug prices without focusing heavily on Biden himself in ads.

Becerra’s competitors often criticize his handling of issues like the COVID-19 pandemic and other crises. However, his ties to Biden have not drawn criticism. Campaign spokesperson Jonathan Underland says the focus is on Becerra’s individual accomplishments, arguing California voters seek a governor with experience and independence.

Haaland’s Approach in New Mexico

Deb Haaland, a strong candidate in New Mexico’s Democratic primary, commends Biden for his partnership and focus on indigenous issues. Her ads emphasize her groundbreaking candidacy and opposition to Trump policies, rather than mentioning Biden directly. Haaland highlights her environmental achievements from her time as interior secretary.

Despite not seeking an endorsement from Biden, Haaland views him as beneficial to her campaign. Her spokesperson stresses local endorsements as her focus.

Bottoms in Georgia

Keisha Lance Bottoms received Biden’s first post-presidential endorsement and actively promotes it. Her campaign roles include mentioning administration successes like student loan forgiveness. Despite this, her ads do not emphasize her Biden administration experience.

Her Republican opponents plan to connect her closely with Biden in their messaging. Campaign spokesperson TaNisha Cameron asserts Bottoms prioritizes lowering costs and standing up for Georgians against Trump’s influence.

Democratic strategists suggest these candidates’ state-level prominence and individual achievements are more critical to voters than their Biden connections. Each candidate has a distinct local recognition and track record.