California voters decide who will succeed Newsom in consequential governor's race
Democrat Xavier Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton battled over housing costs, homelessness and Trump in the race to succeed Gavin Newsom as governor.
TL;DR
- Xavier Becerra is projected to win the California gubernatorial race, defeating Republican Steve Hilton.
- Becerra, a Democrat, previously served as HHS Secretary and California's Attorney General.
- Hilton, a Republican, campaigned on tax cuts, deregulation, and addressing the state's cost of living.
- Becerra's platform focused on state programs, housing construction, and expanding social services.
- This election extends the long-standing Democratic dominance in California statewide politics.
- A Republican has not won a California gubernatorial election since 2006.
- Becerra will be sworn in as governor in January 2027.