California Gubernatorial Race Update
In the latest California gubernatorial race, Xavier Becerra, a Democratic candidate, seems to be gaining ground, aligning himself with key allies of Governor Gavin Newsom.
Recent polling indicates that Becerra is tied with Republican Steve Hilton, a Trump supporter, each receiving 19% from likely voters. This information comes from an EMC survey.
Just weeks ago, Becerra, who previously held the position of Secretary of Health and Human Services, wasn’t polling well at all. However, he started to gain traction after Eric Swalwell stepped out of the race and left Congress amid allegations of sexual misconduct.
A poll conducted from April 21 to April 26 shows Republicans Chad Bianco and Democratic billionaire Tom Steyer with 14% support, while Democrats Katie Porter and Matt Mahan are further behind at 8% and 7%, respectively.
Becerra, presenting himself as a calm, experienced Democrat, boasts the highest favorability ratings among the candidates: 72% of Democrats and 47% of all voters hold a positive view of him.
Despite repeated refusals to endorse him, Newsom’s key allies have begun to support Becerra. He has a long history in California politics, having served both in the state legislature and as attorney general before joining the Biden administration.
Reports suggest that Becerra has brought on two political consultants, Lindsey Cobia and Courtney Pugh, who have been closely associated with Newsom since 2015 and 2021, respectively. Cobia is particularly notable for leading Newsom’s national campaign efforts.
Additionally, two firms that played significant roles in Newsom’s social media and fundraising initiatives have started supporting Becerra as well.
However, even as Becerra seems to rise in popularity, some critics remain concerned about his past at the Department of Health and Human Services. They point out issues, such as the department losing track of 85,000 unaccompanied migrant children, with reports of some being found in exploitative work conditions.
There’s also scrutiny over his connections to a corruption scandal in Sacramento. Sean McCluskey, a former aide to Becerra, recently admitted guilt to charges related to misappropriating $225,000 from Becerra’s inactive campaign fund for personal use. Becerra has denied any knowledge of McCluskey’s actions.
