Becerra Ties for First in California Governor Poll

Xavier Becerra, former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary under President Joe Biden, has surged to a tie for first place in the latest poll for California's upcoming gubernatorial primary, drawing sharp criticism from some of his past administration colleagues and debate opponents.

The California Democratic Party poll released this week shows Becerra at 18 percent support among likely voters, matching Republican Steve Hilton, a former Fox News host and political strategist. Other candidates trail, including Sheriff Chad Bianco at 14 percent, Tom Steyer at 12 percent, Katie Porter at 8 percent, Matt Mahan at 7 percent, and Antonio Villaraigosa at 2 percent. The survey comes about a month before the June primary in the state's top-two jungle system, where the two highest vote-getters advance regardless of party. Becerra's rise follows Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell's withdrawal from the race last month amid sexual misconduct allegations.

Several former Biden administration officials, speaking anonymously, expressed surprise at Becerra's polling strength. One described group chats among alumni reacting with laughter to polls showing him ahead, noting he "took a backseat to Dr....