Becerra Surges Ahead in California Gubernatorial Race as Progressive Momentum Grows, Establishment and Right-Wing Candidates Scramble for Second
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A new poll shows Xavier Becerra leading the California governor’s race, reflecting a groundswell of support for progressive policies. Corporate-backed Steve Hilton and billionaire Tom Steyer are locked in a tight contest for second as the primary nears.
Xavier Becerra has surged to the front of the race to succeed Governor Gavin Newsom, capturing 25% of likely voters according to a new UC Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies poll. This leap, from just 5% in March, signals a powerful shift toward progressive leadership in California. Republican Steve Hilton, representing entrenched conservative interests, trails with 21%, while billionaire Tom Steyer—despite his Democratic label and massive self-funding—holds 19%, raising questions about the influence of wealth in politics.
The poll highlights the waning support for establishment figures like Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco (6%) and former Representative Katie Porter (7%), suggesting voters are rejecting status quo candidates. Poll director Mark DiCamillo noted the challenge of forecasting outcomes amid historically low turnout, but emphasized the potential for a late surge in Democratic participation as the June 2 primary approaches—a critical factor for progressive victories.
Democratic voters overwhelmingly favor Becerra by 11 points over Steyer, a clear rebuke of billionaire influence. Meanwhile, Republican voters rally behind Hilton, who leads Bianco nearly two to one, reflecting the GOP’s ongoing embrace of reactionary politics. Becerra’s broad appeal among women and Latino voters underscores the growing power of diverse, working-class communities, while Steyer’s support among Black voters highlights the importance of intersectional coalitions. Hilton’s base remains concentrated among libertarians and affluent Orange County residents.
As other candidates withdraw amid scandals, the race’s dynamics have shifted, particularly due to Steyer’s unprecedented $212 million in self-funding—a stark reminder of the corrosive role of money in politics. Voters remain focused on urgent issues like healthcare cuts and skyrocketing living costs, demanding real solutions from their leaders.
With speculation that two Democrats could advance to the general election, DiCamillo warned this could devastate Republican prospects and reshape congressional races, potentially tipping the balance of power in the U.S. House. The poll, which surveyed over 8,500 registered voters and has a margin of error of 2 points, underscores the stakes for California’s future and the nation’s political direction.