Democrat Xavier Becerra has advanced to the general election for California governor, positioning himself as a seasoned leader ready to succeed outgoing Governor Gavin Newsom.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — Democrat Xavier Becerra has officially advanced to the general election for California governor, following a campaign that emphasized his extensive experience in public service. Becerra, who previously served as the state attorney general and U.S. health secretary, aims to lead the nation’s most populous state after the tenure of Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom.
In a statement celebrating his advancement, Becerra expressed gratitude to California voters, saying, “The people of the great state of California, in the greatest nation on earth, have spoken — loudly and proudly. We are never backing down. November, here we come.”
As the race progresses, it remains uncertain who Becerra will face in the general election. His main competitors include Republican Steve Hilton, a former Fox News commentator who has garnered support from former President Donald Trump, and Democrat Tom Steyer, a billionaire climate activist who has invested $215 million of his own funds into his campaign.
Becerra’s roots run deep in California; he was born and raised in Sacramento by Mexican immigrant parents. He is married and has three daughters. He has often highlighted his family’s immigrant background, which he believes resonates with his “underdog” gubernatorial campaign. Initially facing challenges in gaining traction, Becerra has surged in popularity in recent months.
The dynamics of the race shifted significantly when one of the leading Democratic contenders, Rep. Eric Swalwell, was accused of sexual assault and subsequently withdrew from the race. This development allowed Becerra to consolidate Democratic support, leading to key endorsements from labor organizations and Latino legislative leaders.
Throughout his campaign, Becerra has positioned himself as a staunch opponent of the Trump administration. During his tenure as attorney general, he filed over 120 legal actions against the administration on various issues, including immigration and climate policy. His commitment to maintaining California’s status as a counterbalance to federal policies has been a cornerstone of his platform.
In recent days, tensions have escalated between the state and the former president, who has made unfounded claims regarding election fraud. Following these claims, federal prosecutors announced investigations into allegations of election misconduct. Hilton has called for California to limit mail-in ballots to those who specifically request them, rather than distributing them to all registered voters.
During the campaign, Becerra’s opponents have scrutinized his leadership as health secretary, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic and the crisis involving unaccompanied migrant children in 2021. Critics have raised concerns about the conditions in shelters managed by his department and the vetting process for sponsors of the children.
If elected governor, Becerra has pledged to declare states of emergency to tackle high energy costs and housing shortages, as well as to freeze home insurance rates to protect residents.
Should he win the election, Becerra would make history as the first Latino governor of California since the late 1800s. Governor Newsom is unable to seek a third term due to state-imposed term limits.
As the election date approaches, Becerra’s campaign continues to gain momentum, positioning him as a formidable candidate in California’s political landscape, according to The Associated Press.