Becerra Projected to Win California Governor's Race After Swalwell Scandal

Democrat Xavier Becerra was projected to win the California governor’s race on Tuesday, defeating Republican Steve Hilton in a contest that became less about policy and more about political survival. The New York Post reported ^[1] that the Associated Press called the race shortly after polls closed at 8 p.m., citing an overwhelming victory that made counting remaining votes unnecessary.

Becerra, 68, will succeed term-limited Gov. Gavin Newsom, according to NBC News ^[3]. His path to victory was paved not by his own campaign momentum, which the Post described as "uninspiring" ^[1], but by the implosion of Democratic frontrunner Eric Swalwell. Swalwell suspended his campaign in April following allegations of sexual assault and misconduct, which he denied. His departure left Becerra as the "safe, if bland" choice for a Democratic base that feared a runoff between two Republicans.

Hilton, a former Fox News host and Trump endorsee, faced an uphill battle in the deep blue state, where Democrats hold a 45% to 25% voter registration advantage ^[1]. He campaigned on tax cuts and spending reforms, posting a final video message from the Golden Gate Bridge blaming California’s exodus on government mismanagement. However, Becerra effectively framed the election as a referendum on President Trump, highlighting his record of suing the administration 122 times while serving as state attorney general ^[3].

The victory marks a stark turnaround for Becerra, who sat in sixth place in polls just two months before the June primary ^[1]. He outlasted billionaire Tom Steyer, who spent over $200 million, and former Rep. Katie Porter to secure the Democratic nomination. While Becerra’s campaign lacked splashy policy rollouts, his experience as Biden’s health secretary and his anti-Trump stance resonated with voters concerned about federal overreach.

Becerra now inherits significant challenges, including a structural budget deficit and a housing crisis that has driven many residents out of state ^[1]. A recent California Post poll found 56% of likely voters believe the state is on the wrong track, and 44% have considered leaving. Becerra has pledged to speed up building permits and enforce housing laws, though critics note his proposals remain light on specifics.

Hilton conceded the loss in a race that saw California remain firmly in Democratic control, with the state not electing a Republican governor since Arnold Schwarzenegger in 2006 ^[3]. Becerra’s win solidifies his position as a potential 2028 presidential contender, though his focus in January will be on domestic issues like cost of living and healthcare costs ^[1].