Former Biden Cabinet Member Xavier Becerra Launches California Governor Campaign

Xavier Becerra, the former Health and Human Services Secretary under President Joe Biden, has officially thrown his hat into the ring for California's gubernatorial race. His announcement signals a high-profile entry into a contest that is already heating up with notable candidates.

In his campaign launch, Becerra emphasized the challenges Californians are facing: "From housing to healthcare, childcare to college, working families are facing an affordability crisis. The California Dream is slipping away. I’m running for Governor to fight for that dream, to build a stronger, affordable California for everyone, and to take on bullies who get in our way," he stated passionately on his campaign website.

Becerra is touting his multifaceted experience as a construction worker, executive, and lawmaker. "We need a leader who will reward hard work, innovation, and endurance again. I’m that leader, and as Governor I’ll be ready to build a California that’s rising again," he added. Clearly, he's aiming to position himself as someone who understands the struggles of everyday Californians while projecting a no-nonsense, roll-up-your-sleeves leadership style.

Before his tenure at HHS, Becerra served as California's Attorney General and spent over two decades in the U.S. House of Representatives. His deep political roots in the Golden State could prove to be both an asset and a challenge as he faces other prominent contenders.

Among those seeking to replace Governor Gavin Newsom, who is term-limited, are former U.S. Representative Katie Porter and California’s current Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis. The race is shaping up to be a battle of political heavyweights, and the competition doesn’t stop there.

Adding to the intrigue is Vice President Kamala Harris, who is reportedly weighing her options. According to sources, Harris is deliberating whether to run for the governorship, set her sights on the presidency in 2028, or pursue a position outside of elected office. Her decision, expected by the end of the summer, could upend the dynamics of this race entirely.

The California governor’s race is shaping up to be a high-stakes political drama, with big names, big ambitions, and the future of the state’s leadership on the line. Becerra’s entry adds another layer of complexity to this already fascinating contest.