Xavier Becerra Emerges as Leading Candidate in California Gubernatorial Race
Xavier Becerra, the former Secretary of Health and Human Services under the Biden administration, has become the leading candidate for the Democratic nomination in California’s competitive gubernatorial race. This shift has surprised many party insiders who had hoped for a more straightforward leader among the Democrats.
His rise, particularly noted following the unexpected collapse of former Rep. Eric Swalwell’s campaign, has placed him ahead of a crowded field just weeks before the June primary.
However, after the most recent gubernatorial debate, some former Biden administration officials have expressed both disappointment and skepticism about Becerra’s track record.
“We really need a candidate who can win! But is he the one? It’s surprising,” shared a former Biden official anonymously.
Becerra is described as a skilled politician. Yet, a fourth former official noted that when he was attorney general, he focused on litigation. But as a congressman, while he served his constituents and introduced legislation, there were signs he might not be cut out for higher stakes, particularly during crises. “It became apparent he struggled to handle serious challenges,” the official added.
The political landscape is getting more complicated, especially after rival Matt Mahan, also a Democrat, criticized Becerra’s performance during the pandemic. Mahan suggested that the Biden administration distanced itself from Becerra due to his lack of effective results, particularly regarding the federal response to COVID-19.
Post-debate, Xochitl Hinojosa, former communications director for the Justice Department, bluntly labeled Becerra as ineffective during his leadership at HHS.
“People are recognizing that he wasn’t an effective secretary. Most Cabinet members would agree,” Hinojosa stated.
Neera Tanden, who served as chief of staff in the White House, reacted to Hinojosa’s criticisms, adding another layer of scrutiny to Becerra’s leadership during his tenure.
Another former Biden official supported the negative evaluations, emphasizing that Becerra’s lack of a strong work ethic was evident during his time at HHS.
“It’s almost laughable to see the poll results. He managed a key agency during a pandemic but often seemed to be in the background, letting Dr. Fauci take the lead. Even his colleagues faced challenges just to reach the presidential level,” explained this source, reflecting on Becerra’s polling placing less than 30 days before the primary.
On a different note, recent polling data highlights the rapidly evolving nature of this race, with Becerra and Republican candidate Steve Hilton both garnering 18% support, according to a poll from the California Democratic Party. Interestingly, the number of undecided voters has decreased from 24% to 14%, indicating a growing voter engagement.
According to CADEM: “Results show Becerra and Hilton are tied at the top of the polls, each with 18% support. This suggests that voters are beginning to make up their minds.”
- Steve Hilton (R) – 18%
- Xavier Becerra (D) – 18%
- Chad Bianco (R) – 14%
- Tom Steyer (D) – 12%
- Katie Porter (D) – 8%
- Matt Mahan (D) – 7%
- Antonio Villaraigosa (D) – 2%
- Tony Thurmond (D) – 1%
- Betty Yee (D) – 1%
Who is Steve Hilton (R)?
Steve Hilton, a British-American political strategist and former media personality, is recognized for his role as director of strategy under British Prime Minister David Cameron. He gained attention as the host of “The Next Revolution” after relocating to California and obtaining U.S. citizenship.
His campaign, backed by Donald Trump, focuses on “positive populism” with promises to restructure taxes and reduce state government waste and inefficiency. Hilton’s advocacy for decentralizing power is clearly influenced by his background as the son of Hungarian refugees.
