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Becerra leads Hilton by wide margin in California governor's race, new poll finds
Race status
The race remains unresolved because the general election has not happened yet, but the contest has narrowed to Xavier Becerra and Steve Hilton after the June primary. That primary determined the two finalists, not the final winner, so any current “winner” discussion is really about who is ahead in the latest polling and coverage.
The most recent reporting shows Becerra with a clear advantage, though the gap can still change before November. That makes this more a snapshot of the race than a final outcome.
Why it matters
Polls matter here because California’s statewide races can still shift with turnout, campaign spending, and issue salience. Recent coverage also points to Becerra’s fundraising edge, which can help sustain his lead as the campaign moves toward the general election.
Hilton’s path depends on shrinking that gap and broadening his appeal beyond the Republican base, especially in a state that usually favors Democrats statewide. The size of the current lead suggests he faces an uphill climb, but not an impossible one this far out.
What comes next
The next major development will likely come from new polling, fundraising reports, and campaign messaging as both sides define the race for fall voters. Debate performance and turnout efforts will matter more as Election Day approaches.
For now, the best answer to “who is winning” is that Becerra is leading recent public polling, while the actual winner will not be known until the November general election.