Former Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra has officially secured a spot in California’s November gubernatorial election, ensuring Democrats will have a candidate on the ballot despite fears of vote splitting in the crowded primary race.
CNN projected Friday that Becerra built an insurmountable lead over several rivals competing for one of the top two positions under California’s primary system.
“I’m so humbled and honored to be moving on to the general election to become your next governor,” Becerra said in a video posted to X.
The battle for the second spot remains undecided, with Republican Steve Hilton and Democratic activist Tom Steyer still competing for the runoff position.
Becerra’s advancement is a major relief for Democrats, who worried that a divided field could allow two Republicans to move forward.
If Hilton secures the second spot, he would still face an uphill battle in heavily Democratic California, where registered Democrats outnumber Republicans by millions. The last Republican governor elected in the state was Arnold Schwarzenegger more than 20 years ago.
The campaign exposed divisions within the Democratic Party after several major figures, including Kamala Harris and Sen. Alex Padilla, declined to run.
Former Rep. Katie Porter and Rep. Eric Swalwell were once viewed as strong contenders, but both campaigns collapsed following separate controversies, leaving an opening Becerra successfully used to position himself as the experienced candidate in the race.
Becerra highlighted his background as California attorney general, congressman, and cabinet secretary, arguing the state needs proven leadership to handle major challenges.
Critics, however, attacked his record on issues including the migrant crisis, the federal response to mpox, and a fraud case involving a former chief of staff. Becerra has not been accused of wrongdoing.
With Friday’s projection, one thing is now certain: Xavier Becerra will compete for California governor in November.
