Becerra Ties with Republican Steve Hilton in California Governor's Race

A May 4 poll commissioned by the California Democratic Party shows former Attorney General Xavier Becerra and Republican former Fox commentator Steve Hilton each at 18 % of likely voters, tying for the lead in the June 2 top-two primary. The EVITARUS survey of 1,200 likely voters (±2.83 pp) also recorded Chad Bianco at 14 % and undecided voters at 14 %, down from 24 % in March.

Desert Sun

California’s nonpartisan “jungle” primary lists all candidates on one ballot; the top two advance regardless of party. Over 60 candidates, including 51 challengers, compete. Becerra’s rise followed Rep. Eric Swalwell’s exit after sexual-assault allegations. The primary’s June 2 date will determine which two candidates advance to the November general election.

Washington Examiner

The EVITARUS poll shows Becerra and Hilton at 18 % each, Bianco (R) 14 %, Steyer (D) 12 %, Porter (D) 8 %, Mahan (D) 7 %, others <=2 %.

Washington Examiner

Becerra’s campaign logged over 20,000 recent donations, 97 % first-time, and a $39,200 Chevron contribution. Steyer criticized the oil money; KQED noted Becerra’s retreat from single-payer health-care support.

Politico

The tie lowers the odds of two Republicans advancing, a scenario Democrats fear could dilute the blue vote. Latino voters are coalescing around Becerra, echoing Black support for Biden in 2020. Party leaders cite progress toward “ensuring a strong Democrat” and advancing Proposition 50.

Politico

Becerra spokesperson Jonathan Underland said, “The message from California voters is clear… they want a governor who can fight and win; Becerra delivers.” The California Democratic Party posted, “Today’s VOTER Index shows progress toward ensuring a strong Democrat is elected governor.” Party chair Rusty Hicks called the poll “movement in the race and progress toward a strong Democrat.” The statements underscore the party’s strategic focus on consolidating Democratic support.

Washington Examiner

Steyer attacked Becerra for a $39,200 Chevron donation, questioning his climate stance. KQED reported Becerra’s backpedal on single-payer health-care.

E&E News

Sources differ on Becerra’s health-care position: early single-payer advocacy versus later retreat reported by KQED. Though endorsed by Latino caucus and labor groups, the state Democratic Party has not formally endorsed him, leaving a backing gap.

Politico

• “In comparison, Tio Joe, and in this case, Tio Becerra, both give you stability — somebody who you’ve known, who you’ve seen, who’s been around national and state politics,” — Mark Gonzalez, Assemblymember

Politico

• “There’s no real party machinist here,” — Mark Gonzalez, Assemblymember

Politico

• “The idea is to position yourself best to be able to capitalize on any eventuality.” — Michael Bustamante, Becerra campaign spokesperson

Politico

• “The validating piece that Biden had was being Obama’s VP and what that meant for the Black community,” — Danielle Cendejas, Democratic consultant

Politico