Despite bruising attacks from fellow Democrats, relentless negative advertising, and growing frustration over California’s direction, former Biden Cabinet official Xavier Becerra somehow remains the Democratic frontrunner in California’s governor’s race — a reality that has many political observers scratching their heads.
Fresh polling released by the California Democratic Party shows Becerra narrowly leading a crowded field of Democrats, even as Republicans are sensing a rare opportunity to shake up politics in the deep-blue Golden State.
Becerra, who served as Health and Human Services Secretary under former President Joe Biden, pulled in 21% support among likely voters. Billionaire climate activist Tom Steyer — who has spent staggering sums attempting to bulldoze his way to the top — trailed behind at 15%.
The rest of the Democratic field? Far behind.
Former Orange County congresswoman Katie Porter managed only 7%, while San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan landed at 4%. State education chief Tony Thurmond and former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa barely registered in the race, each pulling just 1%.
For Democrats hoping for a fresh face or a dramatic shake-up, the numbers paint a troubling picture: California’s left-wing establishment appears stuck recycling familiar names, even as voter frustration grows over crime, homelessness, affordability, and years of one-party rule.
Steyer, meanwhile, has spared no expense trying to knock Becerra down.
The billionaire Democrat has shattered self-funding records for statewide office, flooding television, digital platforms, and social media with attack ads targeting Becerra’s decades-long political record. Several ads have criticized Becerra over donations from corporate giants, including energy heavyweight Chevron — an awkward issue for a party that frequently rails against corporate influence.
Yet despite the spending blitz, Becerra insists voters simply aren’t buying what Steyer is selling.
Speaking after a campaign event in South Los Angeles, Becerra argued Californians are beginning to “crystallize” around candidates with governing experience.
“I think more and more as people look at the candidates, they’re going to start to crystallize behind somebody who won’t need training wheels,” Becerra said, portraying himself as a steady hand ready to govern on day one.
He also dismissed Steyer’s advertising barrage as ineffective, arguing voters are skeptical of wealthy candidates trying to purchase political power.
“He’s spending like no one before,” Becerra said. “California voters are not anxious to have someone who wants to buy the office.”
But while Democrats bicker among themselves, Republicans see a growing opening — and one name in particular is gaining serious traction.
Former Fox News host Steve Hilton emerged at the top of the statewide poll with 22% support, narrowly edging out Becerra and positioning himself as perhaps the strongest Republican contender California has seen in years.
Hilton’s rise comes after receiving an endorsement from President Donald Trump, a move that appears to have reshaped the GOP field. Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, once competitive with Hilton, now trails at 10%.
Hilton says the momentum on the ground mirrors what his campaign has been seeing for months.
“I’m obviously happy to see I’m at the top,” Hilton said, while cautioning Republicans not to get complacent.
Under California’s unusual top-two primary system, the two highest vote-getters advance to the general election regardless of party. Hilton warned conservative voters against splitting support in hopes of advancing two Republicans — a gamble that could ultimately hand Democrats both spots on the November ballot.
“Only one of us can make the top two,” Hilton warned. “We can’t take that for granted.”
For the first time in years, California Republicans believe the political map may not be as settled as the establishment thinks — and frustrated voters may finally be ready for change.
