Grassroots Power, Long Game: Becerra Ramps Up California Governor Bid

Xavier Becerra surges in the California governor race after Rep. Eric Swalwell drops out, drawing new support and narrowing the gap with frontrunner Tom Steyer; the piece weighs his decades-long resume and endorsements against criticisms of his record—from his time as California attorney general and HHS secretary to his handling of COVID-19 and the migrant unaccompanied minors crisis—as Californians weigh experience and representation in a volatile primary that will determine November’s winner.