Gavin Newsom’s top allies flood Xavier Becerra with union cash
Gavin Newsom’s close political allies are channeling union funds into Xavier Becerra’s gubernatorial campaign through a new independent expenditure committee, boosting Becerra’s standing despite a scandal involving his former aide. Becerra, once a longshot candidate, has seen a surge in poll numbers and fundraising after Eric Swalwell exited the race amid misconduct allegations. While Newsom has not endorsed anyone, his associates’ support has positioned Becerra as a leading Democratic contender in California’s 2026 governor’s race.
- ▪Bearstar Strategies, a firm tied to Gavin Newsom, is leading an independent expenditure committee supporting Xavier Becerra’s gubernatorial campaign.
- ▪The committee has initial funding from the California State Council of Laborers and the California Primary Care Association Advocates.
- ▪Becerra’s former aide Sean McCluskie pleaded guilty to misusing campaign funds, and Newsom’s ex-chief of staff Dana Williamson faces related charges.
- ▪Becerra’s campaign has brought on longtime Newsom advisors Lindsey Cobia and Courtni Pugh as senior advisors.
- ▪Becerra’s poll numbers rose to 24% after Eric Swalwell dropped out of the race following sexual assault and harassment allegations.
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Politics Gavin Newsom’s top allies flood Xavier Becerra with union cash By Annie Gaus Published May 1, 2026, 7:05 p.m. ET A top political firm tied to Gov. Gavin Newsom is working to funnel union cash into Xavier Becerra’s bid for governor — cementing the dark horse Dem as frontrunner even as he’s dogged by a Sacramento scandal involving his former aide. Bearstar Strategies, longtime consultants for Newsom, are leading an independent expenditure committee to help Becerra ‘s campaign — adding to a considerable war chest for the Dem who was languishing at the bottom of polls only days ago. 5 Xavier Becerra has quietly racked up support from Gavin Newsom’s orbit.
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