L.A. Times Politics is reporting that Xavier Becerra's pre-primary performance in the California governor's race has been remarkable and historic. It said the 68-year-old candidate, described as low-key and non-threatening, leveraged his extensive resume, including roles as U.S. health secretary, California attorney general, longtime congressman, and state assemblyman, to attract voters.
The outlet noted that while Californians often badmouth politicians, they tend to favor candidates with Sacramento experience for governor, unless a celebrity is available. It highlighted the cyclical nature of California politics, moving from charismatic governors like Ronald Reagan and Jerry Brown to more uninspiring figures, and now potentially back to a "boring" candidate like Becerra.
Polling data from UC Berkeley's Institute of Governmental Studies (IGS) found Democrat Becerra leading with 25% support, followed by Republican former Fox News commentator Steve Hilton at 21% and Democrat billionaire Tom Steyer at 19%. A later Emerson College poll also placed Becerra in front with 28%, with Steyer at 22% and Hilton at 21%, in a statistical dead heat. The top two vote-getters in the June 2 primary will advance to the November general election.
L.A. Times Politics said that contrary to earlier speculation of two Republicans advancing, polls now suggest two Democrats could qualify. It reported that Becerra strategically ran a digital ad subtly reminding Republican voters that Hilton was President Trump's "favorite" candidate, aiming to boost Hilton's MAGA support and prevent Steyer from securing the second spot. Becerra is seen as a strong contender against any Republican but could face a challenging fight against Steyer, who has significant financial resources. A Public Policy Institute of California poll also showed similar rankings, with Steyer slightly further behind.