Xavier Becerra wins California governor's race
The Democrat, the son of Mexican immigrants, declared victory Tuesday night and will succeed Gavin Newsom, leading with about 64% of the partial count.
Democrat Xavier Becerra won California's race for governor and will succeed Gavin Newsom, who is barred by term limits from seeking another term. Becerra announced the win himself on X Tuesday night: "I'm honored to be your next Governor."
With about 66% of the vote reported, Becerra had roughly 64% (4.96 million votes) to Republican Steve Hilton's 36% (2.78 million). The figures are partial, and the count continues.
Four minutes later, Becerra posted a second message, in English and Spanish, thanking voters: "Now the real work begins." He had beaten other Democrats in the June primary, and Hilton advanced as the top Republican.
The son of Mexican immigrants, Becerra grew up in Sacramento. He ran the Department of Health and Human Services under President Joe Biden, served as California's attorney general and represented Los Angeles in the U.S. House for more than two decades.
California is the most populous U.S. state and has the largest population of Mexican origin, so its governor weighs on trade, border and migration issues with Mexico. Becerra has not said what policies toward Mexico he will pursue.
