Billionaire Tom Steyer, running for governor in California, has been emphasizing the significant financial opposition from large corporations like PG&E. However, his main competitor, Xavier Becerra—who is currently leading in the Democratic field—has highlighted a recent interaction between Steyer and PG&E’s CEO, Patricia Poppe.
Just before the primary elections, Becerra’s campaign accused Steyer of double standards during the Memorial Day weekend.
They shared screenshots showing Steyer’s past collaborations with Poppe, one of which Becerra reposted on X.
In a July 2025 post on his Instagram, Steyer expressed his satisfaction at discussing energy needs related to artificial intelligence with Poppe in Sacramento.
Friends of XB, Becerra’s campaign, remarked sarcastically, “Less than a year ago, Tom Steyer was spending time with PG&E CEO Patti Poppe. But that must have changed since then!”
Another post featured Poppe appreciating the discussion she had with Steyer about the future of energy during a summit he helped host.
Becerra’s account mockingly said, “Tom Steyer: PG&E hates me! PG&E CEO: I love being with Tom Steyer!”
The California Post has attempted to get a response from Steyer’s campaign.
Steyer argues that PG&E’s reported spending of over $10 million on political action committees this year signifies their intent to obstruct his gubernatorial aspirations.
He often characterizes PG&E as a key adversary, aiming to resonate with far-left voters. In a campaign advertisement from December, he expressed his frustration toward PG&E, blaming them for California’s high utility costs and pledging to lower rates by 25% by breaking the “monopoly power” of utility companies.
This might have motivated PG&E’s involvement in the race.
In response to Steyer’s utility proposals, PG&E countered that energy prices are already being maintained at low costs, noting a $12 decrease in the average monthly bill for homes over the last two years.
As the June 2 primary draws near, Becerra has ramped up his criticisms of Steyer, who is currently polling third but hopes to secure a top two position for the general election.
Republican Steve Hilton seems poised to occupy the other spot alongside Becerra.
