Becerra Poised to Lead California Governor Primary

Xavier Becerra is on track to emerge as the leading vote-getter in California’s 2026 gubernatorial primary, a result that would give the former state attorney general and U.S. health secretary a commanding position heading into the November general election.

California’s nonpartisan primary, scheduled for June 2, will send the top two finishers to the general election regardless of party affiliation. Becerra’s statewide name recognition, long record in Democratic politics and ties to key California constituencies have made him a central figure in the race to succeed the state’s current leadership.

A first-place finish would not secure the governorship, but it would mark a major step toward consolidating support in one of the country’s most consequential state elections. The final ranking will be determined by the official vote count certified by California election authorities.