Xavier Becerra advances in California’s hotly contested governor’s race
Xavier Becerra has advanced to the general election in California's gubernatorial race after a surprising primary victory. He is set to face either fellow Democrat Tom Steyer or Republican Steve Hilton in November. Becerra's win marks a significant moment as he could become California's first Latino governor since 1875.
- ▪Becerra emerged from a crowded primary field to secure a spot in the general election.
- ▪He was previously polling at just 3% and faced pressure to withdraw from the race.
- ▪Donald Trump prematurely declared Hilton the winner, alleging election rigging without evidence.
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Xavier Becerra holds GOTV rally in Long Beach, California, on 31 May 2026 Photograph: Brian Cahn/Zuma Press Wire/ShutterstockView image in fullscreenXavier Becerra holds GOTV rally in Long Beach, California, on 31 May 2026 Photograph: Brian Cahn/Zuma Press Wire/ShutterstockCaliforniaXavier Becerra advances in California’s hotly contested governor’s raceBecerra advanced to the general election after emerging from California’s crowded primary field in the race to succeed Gavin NewsomLauren GambinoFri 5 Jun 2026 20.20 EDTFirst published on Fri 5 Jun 2026 19.56 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleXavier Becerra has advanced to the November general election in California’s gubernatorial race, cementing a stunning come-from-behind primary victory in one of California’s most turbulent campaign…
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