Story perspectives

Xavier Becerra Wins California Primary, First Latino Nominee

6/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Associated Press called the California gubernatorial primary for Xavier Becerra at 7:50 p.m. EDT, advancing him to the November contest.
Becerra earned 26.7 % of the vote, ahead of Republican Steve Hilton’s 26.4 % and Democrat Tom Steyer’s 21.0 %.
His campaign hailed the result as historic, noting he is the first Latino to reach a California gubernatorial general election and pledging he will not be bought, bullied, or back down.

History

Historical Context

In 1960, John F. Kennedy won the U.S. presidency, becoming the first Catholic president, a breakthrough for minority representation. Kennedy secured 303 electoral votes, defeating Republican Richard Nixon, who garnered 219, while the Democratic Party captured 49.7% of the popular vote. Similarly, Xavier Becerra’s 26.7% primary win makes him the first Latino to advance to a California gubernatorial general election, outpacing Republican Steve Hilton’s 26.4% and Democrat Tom Steyer’s 21.0%. This milestone signals California’s evolving electorate, prompting parties to prioritize Latino outreach and reshaping future statewide contests.

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Story summary

The Associated Press called the California gubernatorial primary for Xavier Becerra at 7:50 p.m. EDT, advancing him to the November contest.
Becerra earned 26.7 % of the vote, ahead of Republican Steve Hilton’s 26.4 % and Democrat Tom Steyer’s 21.0 %.
His campaign hailed the result as historic, noting he is the first Latino to reach a California gubernatorial general election and pledging he will not be bought, bullied, or back down.

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