Story perspectives

Steyer vs Becerra: Corporate Money Backs Becerra, Targets Tax Plan

6/2/2026

Summary

Story summary

Tom Steyer, manager, and Xavier Becerra lead the June 2 primary, with Steyer promising corporate taxes despite criticism for private-prison investments, while $500,000 from corporate groups funded super-PACs backing Becerra and attacking Steyer and outside spenders poured $79 million, including $32 million from Realtors Association, California Chamber of Commerce and Pacific Gas & Electric to oppose Steyer.
Progressives see Steyer’s campaign as a push for economic justice, universal health care and corporate taxes.

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Story summary

Tom Steyer, manager, and Xavier Becerra lead the June 2 primary, with Steyer promising corporate taxes despite criticism for private-prison investments, while $500,000 from corporate groups funded super-PACs backing Becerra and attacking Steyer and outside spenders poured $79 million, including $32 million from Realtors Association, California Chamber of Commerce and Pacific Gas & Electric to oppose Steyer.
Progressives see Steyer’s campaign as a push for economic justice, universal health care and corporate taxes.