Xavier Becerra clinched a spot in the November general election for California governor following a come-from-behind victory in the June primary [1, 2]. He saw a dramatic rise from polling at just 3% months before the primary and faced pressure to drop out but ultimately prevailed [1]. Becerra served previously as California attorney general and U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services [1, 2].
Election officials continue counting ballots to determine whether Becerra will face Democrat Tom Steyer or Republican Steve Hilton in the general election [1]. Hilton, the Republican endorsed by former President Donald Trump, initially led in early vote returns but lost ground to Becerra as more ballots were tallied [1]. Trump prematurely declared Hilton the winner and alleged election rigging without providing evidence [1].
Democrats maintain a strong voter registration advantage in California, making a Republican win a challenging path [1]. If Becerra wins in November, he would become the state’s first Latino governor since 1875 [1].
Becerra told supporters, "The people of the great state of California, in the greatest nation on earth, 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." Opponent Steve Hilton said, "Change is coming, and the campaign for change starts today" [1].
The Associated Press projected Becerra would advance to the general election on June 5, but the opponent for November has not yet been officially confirmed [1, 2]. Officials continue ballot counting to finalize the outcome [1].
