Statewide Update in California Governor's Race: Becerra Advances, Hilton Clings to Narrow Lead Over Steyer

SACRAMENTO — With roughly two-thirds to 72% of ballots counted statewide in California's June 2 primary, former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary **Xavier Becerra** (D) has secured first place and advanced to the November general election. The battle for the second spot remains tight between Republican Steve Hilton and Democrat Tom Steyer, though Hilton maintains a narrow edge as late mail ballots continue to be tallied.

Current statewide estimates show:

- **Xavier Becerra (D)**: ~27%

- **Steve Hilton (R)**: ~26%

- **Tom Steyer (D)**: ~21-22%

- **Chad Bianco (R)** and others trailing further behind.

Becerra's surge in the days after Election Night flipped early leads held by Hilton, cementing his advancement under California's top-two primary system. However, the contest for the second November slot is not yet finalized. While Steyer has gained ground — particularly in populous Democratic strongholds like Los Angeles County — analysts suggest Hilton is likely to hold on as remaining ballots dwindle.

In **Los Angeles County**, the latest updates confirm the user's observation: Becerra leads with about 31%, followed by Steyer at 25.01% and Hilton at 20.67%. Heavy mail ballot returns from the Southland have boosted Steyer in this key Democratic region, narrowing the statewide gap.

Hilton, a former Fox News host and Trump-endorsed Republican, performed strongly on Election Night in more conservative and rural areas but has watched his advantage erode with urban and mail votes. Steyer, the billionaire climate activist, has benefited from strong advertising and progressive support in coastal and metropolitan regions.

A Becerra-Hilton November matchup would create a rare Democrat vs. Republican contest in deep-blue California. A Becerra-Steyer pairing would produce an intra-party Democratic showdown. Either scenario leaves Becerra as the heavy favorite in the fall, given the state's voter registration edge.

County officials across California, including in LA, continue processing remaining ballots, a process that has drawn criticism for its pace. Final certification could take additional days or weeks.

The Santa Monica Observer will provide ongoing coverage as results evolve. For the latest:

- LA County: lavote.gov

- Statewide: sos.ca.gov or election result aggregators.