Democrat Xavier Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton Advance to California Governor General Election
Democrat Xavier Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton won enough votes in California's primary to advance to the November general election for governor. Becerra, a former state attorney general and Biden administration health secretary, finished first with 27.67% of the vote, while Hilton, a former Fox News commentator endorsed by Trump, finished second with 25.10%. The race will determine who succeeds Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom in leading the nation's most populous state.
California's gubernatorial race will pit Democrat Xavier Becerra against Republican Steve Hilton in November's general election following the state's primary vote. Becerra received 2,177,556 votes (27.67%), while Hilton garnered 1,975,062 votes (25.10%), with billionaire progressive Tom Steyer finishing third at 22.36%. Becerra previously served as California attorney general under Jerry Brown and Gavin Newsom, and as health secretary under President Biden. Hilton, a former Fox News commentator and political aide who helped orchestrate the rise of former British Prime Minister David Cameron, has been endorsed by President Trump. The winner will lead a state of 39 million people facing major challenges including housing shortages, homelessness, and high cost of living. Republicans represent only about 25% of California's registered voters compared to Democrats' 45%, giving Becerra a significant structural advantage in the general election.
How coverage differed
The Intercept (left-leaning) provided extensive critical context about Becerra's record as attorney general, including his office's push to inflate an intellectually disabled Black man's IQ to execute him and his handling of migrant children. Right-leaning outlets (New York Post, Breitbart) emphasized Trump's endorsement and Hilton's criticism of California's governance and vote-counting processes, while AP News presented both candidates' positions more neutrally without dwelling on controversies.
What different sources said
- AP NewsCenter
Democrat Xavier Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton will face off in California governor’s race
- BreitbartFar Right
Republican Steve Hilton Advances in California Gubernatorial Race
- New York PostRight
Republican Steve Hilton advances to general election for California governor
- The InterceptLeft
In California, a Former Biden Official and Fox News Personality Will Face Off for Governor
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