California Governor's Race: Progressive Hope Persists as Establishment Democrat Faces Right-Wing Media Figure
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Despite the influence of billionaire spending and the looming threat of Republican extremism, California's primary has set up a November showdown between Democrat Xavier Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton, averting a disastrous Democratic shutout.
Xavier Becerra, a steadfast advocate for working people and longtime Democratic leader, will face off against Steve Hilton, a former Fox News propagandist known for pushing right-wing agendas, in California's upcoming governor race. The primary results confirm that, despite the corrosive impact of billionaire Tom Steyer's self-funded campaign—totaling nearly a quarter of a billion dollars—grassroots Democratic organizing and voter engagement have prevailed, with Steyer trailing in third place. Political analyst Garry South highlighted the public’s growing skepticism toward wealthy candidates attempting to buy elections, noting, 'The way rich self-financing candidates spend their money becomes a liability... They wear out their welcome.'
The primary underscored the resilience of traditional Democratic values in the face of rising right-wing populism and corporate influence in national politics. Political science professor Andrew Sinclair observed that voters are seeking candidates with the experience and backbone to resist Republican attacks on social progress. Becerra’s deep political roots and commitment to justice made him the clear choice, especially after the establishment’s abandonment of former frontrunner Eric Swalwell.
California’s top-two primary system, designed to encourage broader representation, has yet to produce a Democratic vs. Democratic gubernatorial contest—a missed opportunity for true progressive debate. Instead, voters have been forced to choose between establishment candidates from both major parties. Fears of a Republican shutout, which would have been a blow to democracy, were avoided thanks to a unified Democratic base.
Party chair Rusty Hicks had previously warned of the dangers of splitting the Democratic vote, urging lower-polling candidates to consolidate support behind progressive leaders. Early results confirm that the party’s prominent figures continue to command significant backing from voters seeking real change.
Meanwhile, the primary delivered mixed outcomes for state legislators aspiring to higher office. While some experienced lawmakers faced setbacks, others, such as Sen. Ben Allen in the insurance commissioner race and progressive champions Scott Wiener and Aisha Wahab in their congressional bids, are advancing—demonstrating the ongoing strength of Democratic and progressive movements across California.