Summary (tl;dr)

Xavier Becerra is currently a leading candidate in California's gubernatorial primary election, taking place today, June 2, 2026, following a recent surge in polls that positions him as a strong contender for the state's highest office.

Essential Background

Xavier Becerra has a long political career, having served as the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services from 2021 to 2025 and previously as California's Attorney General from 2017 to 2021, and a U.S. Representative from California for over two decades. Incumbent Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom is term-limited, making the 2026 election an open race. California employs a "top-two primary" system where all candidates appear on a single ballot, and the two highest vote-getters, regardless of party affiliation, advance to the general election. Early in the campaign, Becerra was not considered a front-runner, but his standing dramatically improved following the withdrawal of Democratic rival Eric Swalwell, who faced sexual misconduct allegations.

The Full Story

Today, June 2, 2026, marks the primary election for the California governor's race, with Xavier Becerra currently leading in recent polls. After trailing earlier in the race, Becerra has seen a significant increase in support, particularly since former Rep. Eric Swalwell suspended his campaign in April 2026. Polling data from Emerson College and the Public Policy Institute of California (PPIC) show Becerra ahead of other prominent candidates, including Democrat Tom Steyer and Republican Steve Hilton. His campaign has emphasized his extensive experience in both state and federal government, highlighting his efforts in expanding healthcare access and challenging the previous presidential administration. The tight race and fragmented Democratic field have raised discussions about the possibility of two Republican candidates advancing to the general election, a scenario the California Democratic Party has sought to prevent. Additionally, there have been questions raised regarding potential conflicts of interest after the online prediction marketplace Kalshi, which offers betting on election outcomes, made a substantial donation to Becerra's campaign.

Why It Matters

This primary election is crucial as it will determine the top two candidates who will compete in the November 2026 general election to become California's next governor. Becerra's unexpected rise to front-runner status, combined with the complexities of California's top-two primary system, means that the outcome could significantly shape the political landscape of the state. The race is also notable for the high number of candidates and the intense competition for the two general election spots, with the potential for an unusual result where two candidates from the same party or even two Republicans could advance, despite California being a strongly Democratic state. The implications of Becerra's platform, which focuses on issues like healthcare, housing, and confronting federal policies, are significant for California residents, particularly in a potential second Trump administration. The scrutiny around campaign finance and the role of prediction markets in elections also highlights broader concerns about transparency and influence in political campaigns.

Geographic Location

• California, United States (statewide gubernatorial primary election)
• Fresno, Fresno County, California, United States (gubernatorial forum)
• Sacramento, Sacramento County, California, United States (gubernatorial forum)
• Long Beach, Los Angeles County, California, United States (Get Out the Vote event)