Becerra and Hilton Tied in California Governor's Race as Election Nears—Progressive Momentum Faces Conservative Pushback
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A recent poll shows Democrat Xavier Becerra and right-wing Republican Steve Hilton tied at 18% in the California governor's race, highlighting the urgent need for progressive mobilization as the primary election approaches.
As California's primary election approaches, a recent poll underscores the high stakes for working people and marginalized communities: Democrat Xavier Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton, a conservative media figure, are locked in a dead heat, each securing 18% support among likely voters. This tie raises concerns about the resilience of progressive values in the face of a well-funded right-wing challenge.
Trailing closely, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, known for his tough-on-crime stance, holds 14%, while billionaire Tom Steyer, who has championed climate action but remains part of the wealthy elite, has 12%. Congresswoman Katie Porter, a progressive fighter for economic justice, follows with 8%, reflecting the uphill battle for transformative change in a political landscape dominated by corporate interests.
The survey, conducted by EVITARUS Research from April 30 to May 2, involved 1,200 Californians and has a margin of error of ±2.8 percentage points. The poll's findings highlight the urgent need for grassroots organizing to counteract the influence of big money and reactionary forces.
Crucially, the poll also reveals a decrease in undecided voters, dropping from 24% in March to 14%, indicating that Californians are beginning to solidify their choices as the election nears. This shift underscores the importance of mobilizing progressive voters to prevent a conservative resurgence.
The California primary election is scheduled for June 2, with ballots being mailed to voters starting this week. The outcome will determine whether California continues its path toward justice and equity or succumbs to regressive policies pushed by the right.