Xavier Becerra’s ‘California dream’ faces reality check as governor’s mansion beckons

Xavier Becerra, a Democrat and former congressman, health secretary and state attorney general, is virtually assured of becoming California's next governor against Republican Steve Hilton. His win would follow a campaign that had stalled early on, when he was overshadowed by talk of a Kamala Harris bid and then overlooked by Democrats hunting for alternatives. He told a Hollywood rally on the eve of the election that his team had been an afterthought, even a punchline, according to The Guardian.

He would take office facing a gloomy electorate. A Public Policy Institute of California survey finds more than eight in 10 residents think the country is on the wrong track and nearly six in 10 say the same of the state. Only two in 10 approve of Donald Trump, a record low. Housing, insurance, utility and fuel costs remain punishing. Survey director Mark Baldassare doubts the new governor will get much of a honeymoon.

Becerra, 68, raised by Mexican immigrant parents in Sacramento, helped write the Affordable Care Act during 12 House terms. As attorney general he filed more than 100 suits against Trump's administration, and he lists fighting Trump second among his priorities.

Summarized by PolitiKool from The Guardian’s reporting. Read the full story at The Guardian →