Xavier Becerra Wins California, Makes Latino History

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Democrat Xavier Becerra has won California's governor's race. He defeated Republican Steve Hilton and will succeed Gov. Gavin Newsom as leader of the nation's most populous state.

Becerra, a former state attorney general and health secretary in the Biden administration, campaigned on more than 35 years in state and federal office. He will be California's first Latino governor since the late 19th century.

His win keeps California and the White House at odds for the last two years of President Donald Trump's second term. Becerra repeatedly tied Hilton to Trump and promised to defend the state on issues from immigration to voting rights.

Hilton is a former Fox News host and adviser to former U.K. Prime Minister David Cameron. He has never held elected office. He argued that one party rule had driven up the cost of living and worsened homelessness, and he said Becerra would continue that failure.

Becerra's victory extends the Democrats' 16 year winning streak in statewide California elections.

Newsom was barred from seeking a third term. If he runs for president, state Democratic leaders are likely to face closer scrutiny.