5 things you need to know about the Xavier Becerra California governor runoff
- The Attorney General turned Health Secretary is officially in the race, setting up a potential history-making clash if he secures a spot in the general election runoff against a leading Republican or progressive Democrat.
- Becerra’s biggest weapon is his Los Angeles base and deep ties to the state’s Democratic establishment, which could help him consolidate the moderate and Latino vote in a crowded primary.
- His biggest vulnerability on the trail will be defending his record on crime and homelessness from his tenure as California AG, a top attack line for any opponent looking to paint him as out of touch.
- While he has global name recognition from his COVID-19 pandemic role, many California voters have already forgotten his state-level work, meaning he must reintroduce himself to a new generation of voters.
- The runoff itself will force a direct statewide debate on healthcare versus public safety, as Becerra’s federal health credentials will be tested against local crisis management priorities.