Newsom endorses Xavier Becerra for California governor, says he’ll ‘stand up to Trump’

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: California Governor Gavin Newsom has officially thrown his support behind Democrat Xavier Becerra in the 2026 gubernatorial race, urging his party to unite ahead of the November general election and saying Becerra will "stand up to Donald Trump."

After a competitive primary cycle, Becerra secured his place on the ballot and will face Republican Steve Hilton, a candidate endorsed by President Donald Trump.

Top Democrats rally behind Xavier Becerra

Governor Newsom took to X on the evening of Tuesday, June 9, to celebrate the results and formally back Becerra’s campaign. “Congratulations to Xavier Becerra on his hard-fought victory,” Newsom wrote.

“The son of immigrants. Xavier has spent his career fighting for California families and underserved communities. He has the experience and grift California needs.”

Emphasizing the importance of the upcoming contest, the governor added, “Now it’s time for Democrats to unite and win in November. I’m proud to support Xavier as our nominee for Governor and look forward to helping ensure a smooth transition. He’ll stand up to Donald Trump, defend our families and keep California moving forward. Let’s get to work!”

Gavin Newsom and Kamala Harris endorse Xavier Becerra

Former Vice President Kamala Harris also joined the effort to unify the party behind the former US health secretary.

In her own statement on X, she expressed enthusiasm for his candidacy, noting, “I am excited to offer him all the support I can as he sets out to become our state’s next governor. This race has featured a large field with many strong candidates, and I am confident that our party will now unite behind Xavier and his calm, steady brand of leadership.”

Steve Hilton vows change after primary win

The primary race saw the defeat of billionaire businessman Tom Steyer, who subsequently threw his support behind Becerra in his concession statement.

Steyer framed the upcoming election as a critical battle against the president, stating, “Donald Trump is the embodiment of the corporations’ craven, soulless, profit-first model of politics, and it is absolutely essential that his handpicked candidate does not hold the keys to California. It would be a travesty for Steve Hilton to win the governorship, and Californians must unite behind Xavier Becerra to ensure he does not.”

Meanwhile, Steve Hilton struck a defiant tone in his victory statement, describing Becerra as “the ultimate career politician” while highlighting his own platform.

“What an incredible honor to be chosen by Californians to lead the movement for change in the greatest state in the greatest nation on earth,” Hilton said.

He added, “There’s nowhere better than California. But a majority of Californians – 56% in a recent poll – believe our state is on the wrong track and needs change.

That is the majority we will now have the honor of leading to victory in November, and I can’t wait to get started on the most high-energy campaign this state has ever seen. Change is Coming!”