Becerra Announces Candidacy for California Governor

Xavier Becerra, the former Health and Human Services Secretary under President Biden, has officially announced his candidacy for California governor, becoming the second prominent Democrat to join the race for 2026. In his announcement, Becerra emphasized his commitment to addressing California's affordability crisis, citing his own background and experiences in public service, including his tenure as attorney general where he sued the Trump administration over 120 times. He stated that California needs a strong leader to tackle the challenges ahead and expressed his belief that everyone, including undocumented immigrants, should have access to healthcare. Becerra's entry into the gubernatorial race adds a dynamic element to a contest that has been relatively quiet, as other candidates like former Rep. Katie Porter have also begun to emerge. His campaign launch coincided with significant changes at HHS, further highlighting his focus on health issues. Becerra's goal is to rebuild the California dream for all residents, reflecting on his parents' struggles and achievements in the state.