Xavier Becerra Becomes California’s New Governor Amid Political Upheaval

Democrat Xavier Becerra has been elected the governor of California, defeating Republican Steve Hilton. The Associated Press declared Becerra the winner soon after polls closed at 8 pm, citing the unlikelihood of a competitive race.

Becerra will succeed Governor Gavin Newsom, taking office in January of the following year. His victory marks a dramatic turnaround from earlier polling, where he struggled to gain traction. His campaign, despite lacking bold initiatives, benefited from the implosion of Democratic frontrunner Eric Swalwell’s campaign due to sexual assault allegations.

Once Swalwell exited the race, Becerra’s primary competition was billionaire Tom Steyer. Steyer spent over $200 million on his campaign, yet Becerra emerged without launching major policy changes. His competent image provided stability Democrats desired following the primary’s upheaval.

Democratic political consultant Steve Maviglio likened Becerra’s journey to that of past governors like Gray Davis and Jerry Brown. Becerra’s prior role as California attorney general saw him take strong legal actions against policies from President Trump’s administration.

Hilton, with strong alliances and endorsements including Donald Trump’s, faced significant challenges due to California’s large Democratic voter base. He proposed addressing economic concerns through policies such as $3 gas prices, tax reductions, and decreased state spending. However, his campaign struggled amid the state’s political landscape.

Becerra pledged to tackle California’s housing crisis, aiming to streamline building permits and enforce housing obligations. On health care, he advocates for universal coverage and initiatives to automate Medi-Cal renewals, along with a fraud task force targeting misuse in care services.

Voter sentiment reflected dissatisfaction with the state’s direction, and many considered leaving. Becerra’s campaign, initially underwhelming, gained momentum as it offered familiarity amidst turbulent political shifts.

The California Post’s poll highlighted economic concerns among Californians as pressing issues Becerra must address as governor.