Hilton and Becerra in a tightening race in final weeks of California governor's campaign

A new poll shows Steve Hilton and Xavier Becerra effectively tied in California’s governor race two weeks before the June 2 primary. Becerra remains the top Democrat at 21% among likely voters, while Tom Steyer follows at 15% after heavy spending on negative ads. Other Democrats include Katie Porter at 7%, Matt Mahan at 4%, and Tony Thurmond and Antonio Villaraigosa at 1% each. Becerra faces attacks from rivals and negative advertising, including scrutiny of his public record and campaign donations from Chevron. Becerra says his support has grown as voters pay closer attention and seek candidates they trust.

"A new poll shows Republican Steve Hilton and Democrat Xavier Becerra effectively tied in California's chaotic governor's race just two weeks before the June 2 primary. Hilton's rise follows an April endorsement from President Trump, while Becerra surged after former leading Democratic candidate Rep. Eric Swalwell dropped out of the contest amid sexual misconduct and assault allegations. Democratic leaders' fears of a shutout in the November general election are easing."

"Former Biden cabinet member Xavier Becerra remains the top Democrat in the California governor's race despite being targeted by a barrage of negative political ads and enduring sharp attacks from his rivals candidates during recent debates, according to new poll released Tuesday by the state Democratic Party. Billionaire Tom Steyer, a Democrat who is shattering self-funding records for statewide office, has been flooding the television airwaves, internet and social media with ads ripping Becerra's long-time record in public office, as well as for accepting campaign donations from oil giant Chevron. But, thus far, that has not been enough for Steyer to overtake Becerra."

"The survey found that 21% of likely voters backed Becerra, who also served in Congress and as California's attorney general, while 15% backed Steyer. Among the other top Democrats: Former Orange County congresswoman Katie Porter received 7%; San José Mayor Matt Mahan came in at 4%; and state Supt. of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond and former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa registered at 1%."

"Becerra on Tuesday said he believes he has climbed in the polls because voters are now paying attention to the race. "They're really looking closely at who's out there, and I think I've been one of the beneficiaries of folks looking for a place that they can feel comfortable where they can trust," Becerra told reporters after a campaign event in South Los Angeles. "I think more and more as people look at the candid"

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