Is Xavier Becerra the Secret Weapon in California’s Gubernatorial Race? Newsom’s Allies Think So!

Governor Gavin Newsom’s political circle is reportedly considering throwing its support behind Xavier Becerra in the race for the next governor of California. This development comes in the wake of a dramatic rise in Becerra’s poll numbers, following the unexpected downfall of Eric Swalwell.

Xavier Becerra, who previously served as Secretary of Health and Human Services under President Joe Biden, has emerged as a significant contender after Swalwell exited the race amidst serious allegations of rape and sexual harassment. With Swalwell’s departure, Becerra has gained momentum among voters, evident from recent polling data that shows his support doubling from a modest 4%–5% to a noteworthy 10%.

This shift in public opinion has been accompanied by an increase in social media discussions about Becerra, suggesting that California voters are beginning to reassess his potential candidacy with renewed interest.

Previously, Newsom’s political network, along with several unions and other endorsing groups, had been largely aligned with Swalwell. The California Post had reported that many of Newsom’s long-standing consultants and advisors were rallying behind Swalwell’s campaign. Among those involved were prominent figures such as Courtni Pugh, Lindsey Cobia, and Jason Elliott, all of whom had varying degrees of involvement with Swalwell’s political ambitions.

A lot of longtime consultants and advisors in Newsom’s political network had been coalescing around Swalwell, the California Post previously reported, in parallel with unions and other groups also lining up endorsements.

Figures tied to Newsom’s political apparatus — including Courtni Pugh, Lindsey Cobia and Jason Elliott — had varying levels of involvement with Swalwell’s campaign.

Bearstar Strategies partners Ace Smith, Sean Clegg and Juan Rodriguez helped launch an independent expenditure committee backing Swalwell.

They all made quick U-turns when the sexual assault allegations against Swalwell surfaced. Swalwell is denying the accusations.

Some Newsom allies are now eyeing Becerra, Politico reported. LaMont Digital, a creative agency that worked with Newsom, recently joined Becerra’s campaign.

The governor himself has so far steered clear of any endorsement, although CNN reported he has been in calls and meetings about the race since Swalwell dropped.

“There’s a lot of conflation between the political team and Newsom,” a source told Politico. “The governor has remained neutral throughout this.”

Newsom reportedly has been lukewarm on much of the candidates running to succeed him and apparently has reservations about Becerra’s past job performance. Becerra was the state attorney general before joining the Biden administration.

The governor has made an effort to not play favorites in the race and even didn’t say much when responding to the Swalwell allegations.

“California has always benefited from a depth of talent and vision within our Democratic Party, and this upcoming race for governor is no exception,” Newsom recently told The Post in a statement.

“The field represents a diverse group of leaders who are deeply committed to continuing our state’s progress, and I have full confidence that voters will choose a candidate who reflects the values and direction Californians believe in,” he added.

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