Xavier Becerra Advances in California Governor Race

Democratic candidate Xavier Becerra will move on to the November election for California governor, according to a call by The Associated Press. Becerra’s advancement follows a lengthy process of counting ballots.

California operates an open primary system where all candidates, irrespective of party affiliation, appear on a single ballot. Registered voters can choose any candidate, with the top two vote-getters progressing to the general election. This cycle featured an estimated 3.5 million uncounted ballots, including mail-in ballots arriving up to seven days after Election Day, provided they are postmarked by Election Day.

This is the first wide-open primary since the late 1990s. The winner in November will face significant challenges, including a budget deficit, high living costs, homelessness, and wildfire risks in California, the country’s most populous state. Current Governor Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, is term-limited and is speculated to have presidential ambitions for 2028.

Becerra, who served as Health and Human Services Secretary under President Biden, has experienced a noteworthy political revival. By April, he had been trailing in the polls. However, he has since gained momentum, drawing on his experience as a former member of Congress and California Attorney General.

Becerra stated, “The people of California have spoken — loudly and proudly. We will not be bought. We will not be bullied. And we are never backing down. November, here we come.”

For the second place spot, Republican businessman Steve Hilton holds a slight lead over billionaire Democratic activist Tom Steyer. Steyer has narrowed the gap as counting progresses. Hilton, endorsed by President Trump, emerged as a frontrunner among Republicans. He previously worked as a commentator for Fox News and advised former British Prime Minister David Cameron. He campaigns on changing California’s trajectory after years of Democratic governance.

A Hilton win in the primary could smooth Becerra’s path to victory given the state’s Democratic majority. No Republican has won statewide in 20 years. If Steyer makes the runoff, it promises an expensive race since he has already spent $213 million of his own funds.

Unexpected events have marked the election season. Prominent Democrats like former Vice President Kamala Harris, Senator Alex Padilla, and California Attorney General Rob Bonta opted out of the race. In April, U.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell exited following allegations of misconduct. His withdrawal and endorsement loss benefitted Becerra, easing concerns about a vote split that might have favored Republicans Bianco and Hilton.

Overall, Becerra’s surge was supported by independent political groups. His momentum positions him strongly for the upcoming general election.