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Democrat Xavier Becerra advanced to California’s general election for governor Friday, securing one of two spots in the November contest to succeed term-limited Gov. Gavin Newsom.
Becerra, a former state attorney general and U.S. health secretary, campaigned on his decades of public service experience, arguing he was the most qualified candidate to lead the nation’s largest state during a period of political and economic uncertainty.
“The people of California have spoken,” Becerra said in a statement celebrating his advancement to the general election.
The race for the second spot remained too close to call, with Republican Steve Hilton and Democratic billionaire Tom Steyer competing for a place on the November ballot under California’s top-two primary system.
Born in Sacramento to Mexican immigrant parents, Becerra highlighted his personal story throughout the campaign, describing himself as an underdog who gained momentum after consolidating support from labor groups and Latino leaders.
His campaign also benefited after former Congressman Eric Swalwell exited the race, creating an opening among Democratic voters seeking an experienced statewide candidate.
If elected, Becerra has pledged to tackle California’s housing affordability crisis, rising energy costs and insurance challenges. He has also positioned himself as a leading opponent of President Donald Trump, pointing to his record of challenging Trump administration policies during his tenure as attorney general.
Becerra’s opponents frequently criticized his leadership at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, citing controversies related to the COVID-19 pandemic and the federal government’s handling of unaccompanied migrant children.
The November election will determine who succeeds Newsom, who is barred from seeking another term because of California’s term-limit laws. If elected, Becerra would become California’s first Latino governor in more than a century.
