Former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra has vaulted into a statistical tie for the lead in the California gubernatorial race, capitalizing on a thinning Democratic field and a surge in institutional support just two weeks before ballots reach voters.
Becerra, who previously trailed in the single digits, is now deadlocked with hedge fund founder Tom Steyer at 13%, according to a California Democratic Party survey released Monday. The shift signals a dramatic realignment in the quest to succeed termed-out Governor Gavin Newsom.
The Becerra surge follows the sudden collapse of two rival campaigns. Former Representative Eric Swalwell exited the race this month amid allegations of sexual misconduct, while former State Controller Betty Yee suspended her bid Monday, citing a lack of resources. Yee immediately threw her support behind Steyer, citing his focus on the climate crisis.
These departures have allowed Becerra to consolidate the party’s moderate and establishment wings. On Tuesday, Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas (D-Hollister) formally endorsed Becerra, joined by 14 Democratic legislators.
“There is no time for on-the-job training,” Rivas stated, highlighting Becerra’s aggressive legal record. As California’s Attorney General, Becerra filed 122 lawsuits against the first Trump administration—a credential leadership views as essential for a state bracing for renewed federal friction.
While Steyer maintains the advantage of personal wealth, Becerra is demonstrating significant grassroots strength. In the week ending Saturday, Becerra raised over $1 million via ActBlue, making him the platform’s top fundraiser nationwide for that period.
The race remains historically unpredictable. Despite his long tenure in state and federal office, Becerra has struggled with low name recognition among the broader electorate. However, GOP strategist Amy Thoma notes that the current climate favors his “authentic” persona as voters prioritize experience over political flash.
Democratic leadership remains wary of California’s nonpartisan primary system. With six prominent Democrats still competing for the June 2 primary, party officials fear a fragmented Democratic vote could allow two Republicans to advance to the November general election—a “lockout” scenario that would leave the nation’s most populous blue state without a Democratic choice for governor.
Becerra’s recent nine-point polling jump suggests the party may be successfully coalescing around a preferred standard-bearer to mitigate that risk. With 2026 shaping up to be a referendum on state-led resistance to federal policy, Becerra is positioning himself as the candidate most prepared to lead the charge.
