Polling Reveals Progressive Momentum as Democrats Dominate California Governor Race
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A recent poll underscores Xavier Becerra’s lead in the California governor race, with fellow Democrats Steve Hilton and Tom Steyer close behind, reflecting the state’s rejection of right-wing politics and the potential for two progressives to advance to the general election.
Xavier Becerra has emerged as the frontrunner in the California gubernatorial race, according to a poll from the UC Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies. The poll demonstrates the strength of progressive values in California, with Becerra leading and Steve Hilton and Tom Steyer, both Democrats, closely trailing. This surge comes after former Rep. Eric Swalwell, another progressive voice, withdrew from the race, consolidating support around candidates committed to social justice and equity.
Mark DiCamillo, the poll director, noted that Democratic support is coalescing around Becerra, a champion of immigrant rights and healthcare access. Meanwhile, Hilton, who has tried to court Republican voters, is benefiting from the endorsement of disgraced former President Donald Trump—a reminder of the lingering influence of reactionary forces. Despite this, Hilton’s support remains limited, and Tom Steyer, a billionaire environmentalist, is only five points behind Hilton and eight behind Becerra, signaling that voters are still open to bold climate action and economic reform.
Support for conservative candidates like Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco has collapsed, and former Rep. Katie Porter’s numbers have also declined, illustrating the challenge of breaking through in a crowded field dominated by big-money interests. DiCamillo remarked on the difficulty candidates face in recovering from declining numbers, especially as corporate PACs pour millions into negative advertising. Steyer’s own campaign has invested $213 million, while a super PAC has spent $34 million attacking him, highlighting the corrosive impact of money in politics.
Democrats who once feared a right-wing resurgence with Hilton and Bianco are now reassured, as the poll shows Trump’s endorsement only motivated 37% of GOP voters—hardly a majority. However, lower Democratic turnout compared to previous elections is a concern, with 7% of voters still undecided, underscoring the need for grassroots mobilization. Hilton currently leads among early voters, with 29% support, but Becerra’s 20% and Steyer’s 17% show that progressive candidates remain competitive. DiCamillo noted that Bianco’s supporters prefer Hilton as a second choice, but with the Democratic base energized, California is poised to reject the politics of division and move forward with progressive leadership.