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Becerra Under Fire in Corruption Case Amid Gubernatorial Bid

4/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Xavier Becerra, former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary, faces scrutiny in a political corruption case tied to Sean McCluskie, his former chief of staff.
Sean McCluskie, along with two others, is charged with stealing $225,000 from Becerra’s campaign accounts.
Becerra says he was unaware of the wrongdoing.
Polls show Becerra at 4% in the California gubernatorial race ahead of the June 2 primary.
Greg Campbell, a lobbyist, has pleaded guilty.

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Story summary

Xavier Becerra, former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary, faces scrutiny in a political corruption case tied to Sean McCluskie, his former chief of staff.
Sean McCluskie, along with two others, is charged with stealing $225,000 from Becerra’s campaign accounts.
Becerra says he was unaware of the wrongdoing.
Polls show Becerra at 4% in the California gubernatorial race ahead of the June 2 primary.
Greg Campbell, a lobbyist, has pleaded guilty.