Xavier Becerra, the former U.S. Attorney General and Secretary of Health and Human Services under President Biden, advanced to California's general election for governor after finishing among the top two candidates in the state's June 5 primary. The Associated Press projected Becerra's advancement following a competitive race in which he overtook Republican Steve Hilton and Democratic billionaire Tom Steyer for one of the two qualifying spots.
California uses a top-two primary system in which all candidates appear on the same ballot regardless of party, and the two highest vote-getters advance to the November general election regardless of party affiliation. The outcome means voters will choose the state's next governor — succeeding the term-limited Gavin Newsom — in the fall.
Becerra, a longtime California political figure who previously served as the state's Attorney General before joining the Biden administration, positioned himself as a continuity candidate aligned with the state's Democratic establishment. His advancement was seen as a significant result in a crowded field that included well-funded challengers from both parties.
The identity of the second candidate advancing to the general election remained a focus as vote counting continued, with the race between Hilton and other top contenders closely watched. The general election is expected to be heavily contested given California's size and the high-profile nature of the open seat.
Left-Leaning Emphasis
- NPR and NBC News framed Becerra's advancement as a victory for the Democratic establishment and a continuation of California's progressive governance.
- The Guardian emphasized the significance of Becerra's background and his ties to the Biden administration as central to his appeal.
- Left-leaning outlets highlighted the competitive nature of the Democratic field and Becerra's ability to consolidate support.
Right-Leaning Emphasis
- Fox News identified Becerra primarily by his role as 'former HHS Secretary,' tying him to Biden-era health policy controversies.
- The Daily Wire framed the result as Becerra 'overtaking' Hilton, emphasizing the competitive dynamic with the Republican candidate.
- Right-leaning outlets focused on the implications of a Democrat-dominated general election in a state they characterize as a cautionary example of progressive governance.