Xavier Becerra has officially secured a place in California’s November gubernatorial election, making him the first candidate guaranteed to advance from the state’s top-two primary system. His advancement provides significant reassurance to California Democrats, who had worried that a crowded field of candidates could split the Democratic vote and potentially allow two Republicans to move on to the general election.
According to projections, Becerra built a large enough lead over competing candidates that his place on the November ballot is no longer in doubt. In a statement posted on social media, he thanked supporters and expressed enthusiasm about continuing his campaign to become California’s next governor, succeeding Gavin Newsom.
While Becerra’s position is secure, the race for the second general-election spot remains unresolved. Republican candidate Steve Hilton, who has received support from Donald Trump, remains in contention alongside billionaire activist Tom Steyer. Election officials have not yet determined which of the two will ultimately advance.
The outcome highlights the challenges Democrats faced during the primary campaign. Several prominent Democrats who were considered potential candidates—including Kamala Harris and Alex Padilla—chose not to run. Their absence left the party without a dominant frontrunner for much of the race.
The campaign also saw several dramatic developments. Former Representative Katie Porter initially emerged as a strong contender, but her campaign lost momentum after controversial videos circulated publicly. Later, attention shifted to former Representative Eric Swalwell, whose gubernatorial campaign ended after allegations of sexual misconduct surfaced. Swalwell denied the accusations but withdrew from the race and resigned from Congress, creating an opening that benefited Becerra.
Throughout the campaign, Becerra emphasized his extensive government experience, highlighting his service as a congressman, California attorney general, and cabinet secretary in the administration of Joe Biden. He argued that California’s challenges require experienced leadership and crisis-management skills.
Critics, however, attacked aspects of his record, including his handling of federal issues such as migrant policy and the mpox response. He also faced political criticism after a former chief of staff pleaded guilty to campaign-related fraud, although Becerra himself has not been accused of wrongdoing. Supporters countered that many criticisms were politically motivated and emphasized his long record of public service.
Looking ahead, California’s political landscape still favors Democrats. The state has millions more registered Democrats than Republicans, making any Republican candidate’s path to victory difficult. The last Republican governor elected in California was Arnold Schwarzenegger, who won reelection roughly twenty years ago.
As ballot counting continues, attention remains focused on who will face Becerra in November. Regardless of the final matchup, his advancement ensures that Democrats will remain represented in the race to become California’s next governor.
