Xavier Becerra Advances in California Governor Race

Democrat Xavier Becerra is moving forward to the general election for California governor. He presented himself as an experienced candidate, ready to lead the state after Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom. Becerra highlighted his over 35 years in public service, including roles as state attorney general and U.S. health secretary, to position himself as the best-qualified choice among many contenders.

On election night, Becerra stated, “I am ready to lead the fight to uphold California’s promise to make sure we have the governance worthy of our gifts.” However, the person he will face in the general election remains undetermined. His opponents include Republican Steve Hilton, a former Fox News commentator supported by President Donald Trump, and Democrat Tom Steyer, a billionaire climate advocate who invested $215 million into his campaign.

Born in Sacramento to Mexican immigrant parents, Becerra has a wife and three daughters. He shared that his family’s immigrant story resembled his campaign, which initially struggled to gain traction but surged in the latter months. Becerra seized an opportunity to unify Democratic backing after Rep. Eric Swalwell, a prominent Democratic contender, exited the race following sexual assault allegations. Becerra gained significant endorsements from labor groups and Latino legislators.

Becerra has committed to maintaining the state’s role as a primary adversary to President Donald Trump’s policies. During Trump’s first term, Becerra filed over 120 lawsuits on issues ranging from immigration to climate policy. Trump recently made unfounded claims of election fraud, and federal prosecutors launched investigations into these allegations. Hilton proposed that mail ballots be limited to those who specifically request them, rather than sending them to all registered voters.

Becerra’s tenure as health secretary faced scrutiny during the pandemic and 2021’s unaccompanied migrant children crisis. Critics pointed to inadequate shelter conditions and issues with vetting sponsors for these children.

If elected, Becerra plans to declare states of emergency for high energy costs and housing shortages. He also aims to halt increases in home insurance rates. While California is diverse, most of its governors have been white men. Becerra would be the first Latino governor since the late 1800s. Newsom is unable to seek a third term due to term limits.