Becerra Defies Doubters, Surges in California Governor’s Race
Xavier Becerra has surged in the 2026 California gubernatorial race following the collapse of Eric Swalwell's campaign. Becerra is now positioned to advance to the November runoff, defying initial polling expectations.
Why it matters
The race provides a significant case study in political momentum and the volatility of primary elections in a major US state.
Political Breakdown Becerra Defies Doubters, Surges in California Governor’s Race Xavier Becerra’s surprising rise in California’s 2026 governor’s race, fueled by a broad working-class coalition and a late collapse by rival Eric Swalwell, has positioned the former attorney general to potentially advance to the November runoff as millions of ballots remain uncounted. Jun 4, 2026 Scott Shafer Democratic Gubernatorial candidate Xavier Becerra speaks to supporters during his election night gathering at La Plaza de Cultura y Artes on June 02, 2026 in Los Angeles. (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images) [This column was reported for Political Breakdown, a bi-monthly newsletter offering analysis and context on Bay Area and California political news. Click here to subscribe .]
The reporting focuses on electoral mechanics and polling shifts rather than ideological advocacy.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in