Becerra dodges questions while California's governor frontrunner solidifies lead

Democratic frontrunner Xavier Becerra has dodged detailed questions about his long record, including scrutiny over how he handled migrant children as HHS secretary and a New York Times investigation into labor exploitation. He dismisses attacks as MAGA talking points and pushed back on tough interview requests, while polls show him at or near the lead and fundraising has surged since Swalwell’s exit. Voters view him as a 'safe choice' in a crowded race, even as opponents highlight the Times report and a 2024 inspector general audit finding safety gaps. Becerra says he isn’t responsible for what happened after children left his agency’s care and that he’s moving forward, a strategy some analysts say benefits from his frontrunner status.