Xavier Becerra Advances in California Governor's Race, Progressives Rally Amid Establishment Uncertainty
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Xavier Becerra has secured the top position on California's ballot for governor, representing a victory for progressive values, while the identity of his November challenger remains unclear as millions of votes—many from marginalized communities—are still being counted.
Xavier Becerra, a Democrat and former Health and Human Services Secretary known for championing healthcare access and immigrant rights, is set to advance to the November election for governor of California, according to The Associated Press. As ballot counting continues, the second spot for the general election remains uncertain, with approximately 3.5 million ballots—many from working-class and underrepresented communities—yet to be counted, including mail-in votes that will be accepted until a week after Election Day if postmarked by that day.
California's open primary system, which allows all candidates to compete on a single ballot, has made this the most democratic and inclusive primary since the late 1990s. The victor of the upcoming election will be tasked with addressing the state's deep-rooted challenges, including a budget deficit exacerbated by corporate tax breaks, soaring living costs driven by unchecked real estate speculation, persistent homelessness, and the growing threat of climate change-fueled wildfires. Incumbent Governor Gavin Newsom, who is term-limited, is widely expected to seek the presidency in 2028, leaving a power vacuum that progressives hope to fill with bold, people-first policies.
Becerra, with a background as a congressman and California attorney general, has staged a remarkable comeback after initially polling in single digits earlier this year—a testament to the grassroots energy propelling his campaign. In a written statement, Becerra emphasized that the people of California have spoken clearly, and reaffirmed his commitment to fighting for justice, equity, and opportunity for all.
For the second spot, Republican businessman Steve Hilton currently leads over billionaire Democratic activist Tom Steyer, though Steyer has been gaining momentum as more votes—especially from urban and progressive districts—are counted. Hilton, despite his claims of a 'progressive platform,' is backed by President Trump and represents a continuation of corporate interests and right-wing policies that have failed working Californians. A Hilton win would likely hand Becerra an easy victory, given California's strong Democratic majority, while a Steyer candidacy could spark a much-needed debate within the Democratic Party about the influence of big money, as Steyer has poured over $213 million of his own wealth into the race.
This primary season has already been marked by dramatic turns, including the departure of former U.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell due to serious allegations—a development that has shifted the balance of the race and may have inadvertently aided Becerra's progressive surge.